We will add to this list as more resources become available. This post was last updated on October 15th, 2024.

Our hearts go out to all communities impacted by Hurricane Helene and those bracing for the upcoming Hurricane Milton, especially to our Deaf and Hard of Hearing community members.  

We know that hurricane preparedness resources are not always accessible in ASL, as we have seen this to be the extreme case with Hurricane Helene.  

With Hurricane Milton making landfall, we aim to change this. We have compiled a list of resources available in ASL. We have also included other critical resources that are not available in ASL, but you can contact our Hurricane Relief ASL Helpline to have them explained in ASL. Please make use of this list as needed and share this information with others who may need it in order to maintain information accessibility in our communities. 

If you have already been impacted by Hurricane Milton, then prioritize your safety, check on others, and follow any issued evacuation orders. 

Resources for and by Deaf Communities 

For one-on-one support in ASL, call our helpline for information about what government assistance is available, how to obtain financial aid, and how to apply for FEMA assistance. You may use this helpline to have general resources explained in ASL.  Save this number to your phone now: (833) 682-7630.

Call ASL Now

Deaf Hurricane Information Facebook Group 

This volunteer-led group shares the latest hurricane information in ASL. 

Join Here 

Off-the Grid Missions  

Off-The-Grid Missions (OTG) is a Deaf-led Disaster Response organization for Deaf/HH people, based in the US and operating on an international level. They are currently responding on the ground to Hurricanes Helene/Milton in the Southeast regions of the United States.

ASL / Deaf-Friendly Video of services: OTG Instagram Message

OTG Aid includes:

• Debris removal and pickup
• Hot Meals
• Replacing essential lost items (Ie: mattresses, bed frames, etc)
• Solar lights with adjustable alerts for Deaf needs
• Headlamps
• Tarps
• Free health clinics
• Mental health services
• Deaf Advocates
• Interpreters
• Evacuations (shelter/hospital)
• Five-gallon round bucket with lid 
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Liquid concentrate household cleaner
• Liquid dish soap 
• Pump spray air freshener 
• Pump spray insect repellent (or pack of wipes)  
• Scrub brushes
• Reusable cleaning wipes 
• Scouring pads
• Clothespins  
• Heavy-duty trash bags (33-45 gallon)  
• N95 particulate respirator dust masks
• Kitchen gloves
• Work gloves
• Groceries delivered to isolated regions
• and more upon request

Note: Aid is limited and available until resources run out.

Need help? Please request as soon as possible here: www.offthegridmissions.org/hurricane-relief

NAD Disaster Preparedness 

While this resource is not available in ASL, it offers vital information on how to prepare for disasters. 

Learn More 

North Carolina’s DSDHH 

This message discusses Hurricane Helene and available resources for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. 

Watch NC DSDHH's message

988 Hotline 

If you’re experiencing mental health struggles, emotional distress, or addiction concerns, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline to connect with a representative fluent in ASL. Look for the “ASL Now” button. 

Visit 988 Lifeline 

General Resources 

These resources may not currently be available in ASL, but you can call the Hurricane Relief ASL Helpline to have them explained in ASL. 

Uber: Offers free evacuations for those affected by Hurricane Milton. Read More 

How to Use: 

1. Open the Uber app
2. Tap Account on the bottom right and then Wallet
3. Add promo code MILTONRELIEF

Starlink: Provides free satellite internet during disasters. Learn More 

Disaster Assistance: Support for applying for financial assistance after a disaster. 

• How to apply in ASL:  Watch the Guide 

FEMA Links: Access updates and information regarding emergency assistance by state: 

• Florida:  FEMA Florida 

• Georgia:  FEMA Georgia 

• Tennessee:  FEMA Tennessee 

• North Carolina:  FEMA North Carolina 

• Virginia: FEMA Virginia 

Red Cross: Assistance in finding friends and family after Hurricane Helene. Red Cross Reunification 

In Summary 

We do our best to prioritize the accessibility of resources when it comes to natural disasters in our communities. We hope this resource list helps you and others recover from Hurricane Helene and prepare for Hurricane Milton. Stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance, including friends, family, neighbors, local organizations, support groups, and helplines.