The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) is mobilizing its members and volunteers to aid in the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, which has left thousands of its members in the southeastern United States struggling with devastation. Many are dealing with displacement or damaged homes due to the historic floods and power outages caused by the storm, making the challenge of rebuilding and recovering daunting.

SMART is calling on its members to rise to the occasion and provide assistance so that those affected can start the process of reclaiming their lives. Those in nearby areas who can assist with physical donations of goods are asked to contribute items such as gasoline, propane, toilet paper, and canned goods.

Members in affected areas who need assistance are urged to connect with their state safety and legislative director (SLD) or general chairperson, who are helping to mobilize assistance through the SMART and SMART-TD Disaster Relief funds. Additional information about the relief fund can be found on the SMART website.

  • North Carolina — Ron Ingerick (ron.ingerick@NCsmart-union.org)
  • South Carolina — Will Ferguson (gwferg2002@yahoo.com)
  • Tennessee — Adren Crawford (adrencrawford@gmail.com)
  • Georgia — Patrick Folsom (pwfolsoml1263@gmail.com)
  • Florida — Andres Trujillo (fltrujilloutu@aol.com)

State Legislative Boards, General Committees, Locals, and individual members outside the affected region are encouraged to make financial donations to the SMART-TD Disaster Relief Fund. Contributions can be sent to SMART-TD Disaster Relief Fund, 6060 Rockside Woods Blvd., N., Suite 325, Independence, OH 44131.

SMART members affected by the hurricane are also urged to reach out to their local leadership or text "CHECK IN" to 67336 (standard message and data rates apply) to connect with a volunteer. Those looking to donate supplies can send them to one of three SMART mobilization centers located at SMART Local 399, 841 Main Street South, New Ellenton, SC 29809; SMART Local 5, 1446 Bethel Drive, High Point, NC 27260; or SMART Local 85, 4830 Mendel Court SW, Atlanta, GA 30336.