2 days ago2 min read

Diocese of Knoxville and Catholic Charities Flood Relief Donation Efforts

Video provided by Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Over a period of a few days, Hurricane Helene had caused significant damage and life-changing experiences for several places in Tennessee and North Carolina.

In times of disaster, the spirit of the Volunteer state truly shines as it fills so many people when support is needed. Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Knoxville were able to mobilize quickly to establish a disaster relief effort on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 in support of the nearby communities impacted by this unprecedented weather.

With the help of numerous volunteers from the Sacred Heart parish and the Knoxville community, including Knights of Columbus Council 5207 members along with other local council members, the relief effort was able to collect a significant amount of donations that included water, non-perishable food, diapers, baby wipes, baby formula, toiletries, blankets / towels, and pet food that was so desperately needed.

There were enough donations received on October 2 to fill a 53-foot trailer which was taken later that day to Newport, Johnson City, and Mountain City. In addition to the donated items, there has been an unofficial donation total of about $30,000 that will go to help support the communities impacted. Additional donation collections will take place up until Tuesday, October 8 as shared below.

As shared via a Facebook post from the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:

We are still accepting donations and drop-offs until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8. The area by the preschool playground has transitioned to an unmanned collection area, and the empty 53-foot trailer is located there as well.

We are asking for volunteers to help sort the items by genre. Over the next several days, we will load the truck again and send it where it is needed. Please share that we are still accepting donations.

A big thank you to Sister Marie from Overbrook Catholic School for driving from Nashville and Danny Herman Trucking, Inc. for donating the resources to transport supplies to affected areas.