WRAL-TV Viewers Give $178,000 for North Carolina Victims of Hurricane Matthew

Hurricane Matthew left a path of destruction through much of central and eastern North Carolina, taking 20 lives, leaving thousands in shelters. Thousands more lost everything in the devastating floods and the waters are still rising. WRAL-TV quickly mobilized an on-air, online, social media campaign to raise funds for relief efforts, and WRAL-TV viewers answered the call for help. In the span of three hours on October 12, viewers donated more than $178,226 to go directly to organizations working across the state to support those impacted by the storm.

All donations collected as part of WRAL’s relief effort will benefit: American Red Cross Triangle Area Chapter, Salvation Army North and South Carolina, and NC Baptists On Mission (NCBM).

“We prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers, and the generosity of donors. WRAL’s wonderful efforts with this telethon will dramatically impact our ability to meet needs caused by Hurricane Matthew in eastern North Carolina,” said Barry Porter, Regional Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Triangle Area Chapter.

“The Salvation Army is so grateful to WRAL for its dedication to the people of North Carolina. Raising that much support during the telethon of just three hours demonstrates the compassion of WRAL viewers. Hurricane Matthew and the rising flood waters have been devastating, but together with a caring community and WRAL, we are bringing hope to those who need it most right now. May God bless our neighbors,” said Major Stephen Long, Commanding Officer, The Salvation Army Wake County.

“We’re so thankful to WRAL for including us in the Here to Help fundraising drive to benefit people who were affected by Hurricane Matthew. Many hurting people will be helped because of this effort,” said Richard Brunson, Director, NC Baptists On Mission.

This disaster is not over, and the need continues to grow. WRAL’s NC Storm Relief campaign will continue on WRAL.com. To make a donation to one of our partner agencies click link: WRAL Here to Help NC Storm Relief or search NC STORM RELIEF on WRAL.com. Those attending the State Fair October 13 – 23 can also make donations to the relief effort in the WRAL tent near Dorton Arena.

“While our news coverage is vital as a public service, it was clear to us that we simply needed to do more. We want to help these three wonderful organizations be able to assist as many people in our area as possible. When our viewers need us, we are here to help,” says WRAL-TV Vice President and General Manager Steven D. Hammel.

Thanks to WRAL-TV’s Debbie Tullos for this capcom story & to WRAL-TV’s Loretta Harper-Arnold for these capcom photos.