Tzu Chi USA Hurricane Florence Relief: Call for Registration

Greater Washington D.C. | October 23, 2018

North Carolina, Oct. 23, 2018 – To date, Hurricane Florence has caused an overall property damage that tops up to an estimated $45 Billion across the Carolinas and Virginia, with 53 confirmed deaths.

In an effort to help ease the great burdens families now face in returning to normalcy, Tzu Chi USA will be offering financial aid this weekend, October 27-28, to qualifying homeowners affected by Florence in three North Carolina cities.

These include Fayetteville, Lumberton, and New Bern. Homeowners may qualify for assistance if they meet the following criteria:

Dwelling must have received classification by the American Red Cross or FEMA as either destroyed or sustaining major damage AND
Dwelling must be located in one of the following zip codes:
- Fayetteville: 28301, 28303, 28304, 28305, 28306, 28311, 28312, 28314, 28441
- Lumberton: 23858, 28360
- New Bern: 28560, 28562

Homeowners must meet both criteria in order to qualify.

Earlier this September, Tzu Chi Relief volunteers worked with the American Red Cross and local fire department officials to determine which areas of North Carolina were most critically hit by Hurricane Florence. They documented the extent of damage sustained to homes and property, intent on returning to help. See the assessment in action here.

One of them included the town of New Bern, where Tzu Chi’s Greater Washington DC Regional Chapter Executive Director Frank Chen called the Temple Baptist Church to ask what kind of help was needed. Pastor Jim Pennington expressed hope in being able to work together for the betterment of the community, across religious borders.

Hurricane Florence brought destruction to homes and despair to hearts here in New Bern. It is during times like these that we extend help and hope to each other. As we do so, we are expressing our love to God.

Jim Pennington, Pastor, Temple Baptist Church

It feels good to know that someone is looking out for you when you need it... We really want this to be a successful event for families in North Carolina.

Frank Chen, Executive Director, Tzu Chi Greater Washington DC Regional Chapter

We strongly encourage as many shares of our online registration form as possible to inform as many qualifying families.

Tzu Chi USA’s ongoing disaster aid is not possible without public support. Practice compassion in action by donating online or texting TZUCHI to 91999. A small gift may make a huge impact on the lives of individuals and families seeking hope during tough times. See how we’ve already helped residents through US disasters this year and learn how you can help make a difference.