General Conference

Adventist World Aviation Delivers Relief in Wake of Deadly Hurricane Helene

AWA pilots bring critical supplies and spiritual support to communities devastated by the historic storm in Florida and beyond.

October 17, 2024

Florida, United States

Sam Neves, ANN

Man stands in front of airplane with supplies.

AWA Supplies During Hurricane. Photo: Deyvid Batista.

Adventist World Aviation (AWA) is providing critical relief in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, delivering essential supplies and spiritual support to isolated communities across Florida and the southeastern U.S. With over 200 flight hours logged, AWA’s volunteer pilots are aiding recovery efforts by transporting food, water, medical aid, and more to those in need.

In the wake of the catastrophic Hurricane Helene, which devastated the southeastern United States, Adventist World Aviation (AWA) has played a crucial role in delivering relief to affected communities. Although AWA is a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, it operates independently and is neither owned nor controlled by the Church. Mobilizing its fleet of aircraft and volunteer pilots, AWA has provided essential supplies to areas across Florida, North Carolina, and beyond, reflecting its mission to bring both physical and spiritual aid to those in need.

Hurricane Helene made landfall on September 26, 2024, in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 storm, with winds reaching 140 mph. This powerful storm quickly became one of the deadliest hurricanes to hit the U.S. since Katrina, with more than 230 fatalities confirmed. Helene’s destructive path extended from Florida into Georgia, the Carolinas, Virginia, and Tennessee, causing extensive flooding and damage across these states. The storm weakened as it moved inland, but not before leaving a trail of devastation.

AWA’s Relief Effort

Adventist World Aviation has been integral to the relief efforts, providing crucial air transport of supplies to areas that were otherwise inaccessible. Over 200 hours of flight time have been logged by AWA pilots—many of whom are volunteers and some aren't church members—delivering supplies such as food, water, baby formula, canned goods, insulin, and even generators. These flights have reached isolated communities in North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina, including Banner Elk, Franklin, and Pickens County.

While the physical aid provided by AWA has been crucial, their work has had an equally profound spiritual impact. Upon landing in the affected areas, AWA pilots are often greeted by locals seeking spiritual support and hope. This has opened opportunities for sharing the Adventist message and offering comfort amid crisis. AWA staff have remarked on the deep connections formed during these missions, not only with the communities they serve but also among the volunteers and staff, who describe themselves as “a big family” united by their mission.

Churches in the region have played a key role, hosting AWA and organizing additional volunteer efforts and donations from local congregations. AWA’s work has been highlighted in various church visits, encouraging communities to support the ongoing efforts through prayer and contributions.

AWA Hurricane Relief Operation

[Photo: Deyvid Batista]

In addition to their on-the-ground relief, AWA’s social media presence has surged during this time. The organization’s updates on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram have drawn significant attention, with followers tracking the progress of relief flights and contributing to the cause.

AWA, which operates entirely on donations, relies on the generosity of its supporters to continue its humanitarian missions. Their work in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is a testament to the power of faith and service in times of need.

In addition to Adventist World Aviation (AWA), both Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) and Adventist Community Services (ACS) are heavily involved in relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene. ADRA has provided $150,000 to ACS for recovery efforts across the southeastern U.S., including in Asheville, North Carolina, and Georgia. They have also delivered solar lanterns to assist in regions without power. Together, these ministries are distributing vital supplies such as food, water, and hygiene kits.

These combined efforts show the breadth of the Adventist Church’s commitment to helping those impacted by Hurricane Helene, providing both immediate and long-term support to affected communities.

AWA is a supporting ministry that operates independently and is neither owned nor controlled by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.