Western North Carolina Updates & How You Can Help

As you know, Western North Carolina has been significantly impacted by recent natural disasters. We want to provide you with an update on ongoing recovery efforts and ways you can contribute.

Several organizations have mobilized to support the affected communities in these challenging times. We encourage you to explore the following avenues for donating and volunteering, whether you're able to assist on the ground or from afar: 

How You Can Help

Manna Food Bank
Manna Food Bank is actively distributing food to those in need across Western North Carolina. They rely on donations and volunteers to continue this vital work. Learn more and contribute here.

AANA Foundation Emergency Relief Fund 
The AANA Foundation has established emergency relief funds to support healthcare workers, including SRNAs and CRNAs, who were impacted by the disaster. Consider donating to help your colleagues in need. 

BeLoved Asheville 
This grassroots organization is deeply involved in providing relief to vulnerable populations in the Asheville area. They are distributing essential supplies and organizing recovery efforts. Find out more about how you can help.

Samaritan's Purse
Samaritan’s Purse is delivering disaster relief and emergency services to impacted communities. They are providing medical care, emergency shelter, and other critical services. More information can be found here.

Operation Airdrop 
Operation Airdrop provides air delivery of supplies to hard-to-reach areas in Western North Carolina. Their work ensures that even the most isolated communities receive aid. More information and how to donate. 

World Central Kitchen  
WCK is on the ground, serving meals to those affected by the disaster and first responders. You can support their efforts here.

North Carolina Nurses Association Nurse (NCNA) Recovery Fund
The North Carolina Nurses Association (NCNA) and the North Carolina Foundation for Nursing (NCFN) have teamed up to help get North Carolina nurses back on their feet so they can get back to doing what they do best: providing quality healthcare to the people of North CarolinaMore information can be found here.


Combatting Misinformation About Relief Efforts

It’s critical to stay informed and share accurate information about the recovery efforts. Unfortunately, misinformation about where to donate or volunteer has been circulating. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re supporting legitimate relief efforts:

  • Always verify the organization through official websites or trusted platforms like Charity Navigator. Ensure you can verify their identity.
  • Be cautious of social media posts that ask for direct monetary donations through personal accounts.
  • Avoid spreading unverified reports about relief operations; instead, rely on official channels and news sources. Misinformation harms recovery efforts and negatively impacts both victims and frontline workers.

Let’s ensure that our efforts are directed where they are most needed and help prevent the spread of inaccurate information that can hinder recovery.

We know the CRNA community is resilient and always steps up in times of need. Your support for the ongoing relief efforts in Western North Carolina is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your continued dedication to helping our communities recover.

Warm regards,  
Elena Meadows, DNP, CRNA
President, North Carolina Association of Nurse Anesthetists (NCANA) 


An Update from Western Carolina University  

Dear NCANA Members, 

I wanted to provide an update regarding the WCU Nurse Anesthesia Program in the wake of Hurricane Helene. We are relieved to report that all students, faculty, and staff are accounted for and safe. Unfortunately, several of our students have experienced significant loss, with some losing their places of residence and personal property due to the flooding. Many others were forced to temporarily leave the area. We feel very fortunate as a whole, given the extensive devastation in some areas.  

Despite these challenges, the program is working diligently to maintain the continuity of academic and clinical education as the recovery efforts in western North Carolina continue. We deeply appreciate the ongoing support from the community as we navigate this difficult time together. 

Thank you for your concern and continued support. 

Sincerely,
Annie Bridges Meyers
DNP, CRNA, Assistant Professor
WCU Nurse Anesthesia Program