ATLANTA — The American Red Cross is providing financial assistance to Georgians whose homes suffered major damage or were destroyed by Hurricane Helene and still face obstacles to their recovery.

Last week, the Red Cross began outreach to specific individuals whose primary residences were located within the disaster affected areas. These individuals are eligible for this additional round of Red Cross financial assistance. For those the Red Cross has contact information for, an invitation to enroll is being sent directly via email or text message from the American Red Cross.

If you receive an invitation to complete an application for financial assistance you can complete the entire process virtually by clicking on the enrollment link in the email or text, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) to enroll, confirm eligibility and receive financial assistance. If you did not receive a message, but your home experienced major damage or was destroyed, please visit redcross.org/helenerelief to check your eligibility for financial assistance and find locations where you can meet with a Red Cross volunteer to apply in person.

Please be aware of scams or people posing as Red Cross representatives. Eligible residents will receive an invitation via email and text based on the contact information the Red Cross has for you. If you’re unsure whether the Red Cross has reached out, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).

All Red Cross services, including immediate financial assistance, are available to individuals regardless of nationality, race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. The Red Cross is a charity, not a government agency and people do not need to be American citizens to receive its help.

Red Cross financial assistance is not a loan and does not need to be repaid.