Duke University Health System shared on Saturday, Sept. 28 that plans are underway to coordinate support and resources in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Many of our Duke Ob/Gyn team members have family and friends who have personally been impacted by the devastation in Western North Carolina (some have not yet been able to connect with their loved ones due to communications challenges). Our thoughts and prayers are extended to them.

As DUHS moves forward with efforts, we will continue to update you. We also are fortunate to have Duke Fertility Center's HCA Erin White (who is from McDowell County — which was especially hard hit) leading an effort in coordination with the McDowell County Chamber of Commerce, where a distribution site has been set up. The effort Erin and her family/team organized is in partnership with McDowell County Emergency Services. The distribution center is adjacent to a FEMA Command Center. She and her team have so far collected and have or are in-process of delivering:

• 6 pallets (11,500 bottles of water) — the first 4 pallets have been delivered
• Multiple individual packs of water
• Propane, gas and non-perishables

What is needed:

• Water, fuel and fuel tanks
• MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) and non-perishable food items — MREs can be purchased on Amazon and other sites
• Baby supplies (specifically baby food and formula)

If you'd like to contribute:

• Please bring supplies noted above to the Duke Fertility Center, 5601 Arringdon Park Drive, Suite 210, Morrisville, NC 27560 or email Anna LaBang or Erin White to coordinate a pick up from your location.
• Please drop off supplies or arrange for a pick up no later than Friday, Oct. 11.

As other opportunities through DUHS are announced to support communities in need, they will be shared. Thank you.