In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Georgia’s farmers are facing significant challenges as they work to recover from damaged crops and infrastructure. According to preliminary estimates shared by Governor Brian Kemp and Nick Place, Dean and Director of UGA's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the total economic impact of the hurricane is expected to exceed $6 billion, including direct losses to crops of $1.8 billion.

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The storm has left many farms struggling to regain their footing, but there are meaningful ways we can all help. Here are some key ways to aid Georgia’s farmers as they rebuild after the storm.

1. Donate to Georgia-Specific Relief Funds

Supporting local farmers financially is one of the most impactful ways to assist their recovery. There are two primary funds specifically dedicated to helping Georgia’s agricultural community:

• The Farmer Fund
  Originally launched after Hurricane Michael in 2018, The Farmer Fund directly assists farms that serve Georgia through farmers markets, CSAs, and restaurant sales. Farmers affected by Hurricane Helene who meet the fund’s criteria can apply for support. For individuals and companies looking to donate, you can do so here.
• Georgia Hurricane Relief Fund
  A collaboration of Georgia’s top agricultural organizations, this fund has been set up to help farmers recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Administered by the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture, the non-profit arm of the Georgia Farm Bureau, this fund is focused on providing critical relief to those most affected. To contribute, visit here.

2. Spread the Word on Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness and encouraging others to get involved. Sharing information about these relief funds or how people can support farmers makes a huge difference. Ready-to-use social media templates and other digital fundraising tools are available here. A simple share can help amplify these efforts and bring in the resources needed to aid Georgia’s farmers.

3. Support National Farm Relief Efforts

If you want to broaden your support beyond Georgia, there are national resources available to help farmers across the country who have been affected by disasters:

• Farm Aid
  Farm Aid is compiling resources and information for farmers, organized by state. Their website is a hub for those seeking to assist farmers in need or farmers looking for help. Learn more here.
• USDA Disaster Programs
  The USDA offers several disaster programs through the Farm Service Agency (FSA), providing federal relief for farmers facing crop losses and damage to infrastructure. Farmers can apply for these programs to help cover losses. For more information on federal aid programs, visit here.

4. Stay Informed

Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments is another great way to support the farming community. The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s Hurricane Helene Response page provides valuable information about the ongoing recovery efforts and available resources for affected farmers. Stay informed by visiting their page here.

Whether you choose to donate, spread awareness, or volunteer, your actions will make a real difference in the lives of Georgia farmers, who provide us with the food we enjoy every day. Thank you for standing with farmers. 

#WeatheredButStrong #SupportOurFarmers

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