Birmingham companies help those affected by Hurricane Michael, including Bresco and Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. Plus, find out where you can donate.
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It’s been a little over a week since Hurricane Michael—a Category 4 storm—ravaged the Florida Panhandle. Here’s a look at how companies and individuals across Birmingham are helping those affected by the storm and how you can too.
Birmingham Companies Making An Impact
Coca-Cola Company, Foundation and Coca-Cola Bottling United, Inc.
The Coca-Cola Company and Foundation have joined forces with local bottling partner Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc. which is headquartered in Birmingham.
To date, they have donated more than 70,000 bottles of water to the American Red Cross and other local community organizations to support emergency response efforts throughout the region.
Donate Through Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is giving consumers an opportunity to support The American Red Cross through the Coca-Cola Give Program. Visit coke.com/give and enter codes found under the caps of Coca-Cola beverages and inside multi-packs. Codes will be converted into donations to the American Red Cross for hurricane relief.
United Way of Central AL—3600 8th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35222
In an effort to help those affected by Hurricane Michael, United Way of Central, AL is collaborating with other United Ways 2-1-1 Call Centers and disaster organizations.
2-1-1 is a free hotline (available 24/7) that provides information and resources—shelter, food, water and other basic needs before, during and after disasters—for those impacted by the hurricane.
The 2-1-1 Call Center is currently recruiting volunteers to support its staff throughout the recovery process. To donate or volunteer, call United Way’s 2-1-1 information center.
For information and updates on Hurricane Michael, text MICHAEL to 898-211.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is actively working to help those affected by Hurricane Michael. Your donation enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from the disaster.
To donate to the American Red Cross Hurricane Relief efforts:
- Visit redcross.org
- Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (435-7669)
- Text MICHAEL to 90999 to make a $10 donation
- Mail checks to P.O. Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037
Another great way to help those affected by Hurricane Michael is to donate blood. Schedule your appointment.
Hibbett Sports
Hibbett Sports has also joined the Hurricane Michael relief efforts of the American Red Cross. They will be accepting donations at more than 484 Hibbett Sports stores throughout the Southeast, including Birmingham.
Items can be donated until Nov. 14.
Click here to find a Hibbett Sports in Birmingham.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides emergency assistance to survivors and first responders. In response to Hurricane Michael, The Salvation Army is actively serving those in need and, with your support, can continue their efforts. Here’s how to help them in their efforts:
- Donate online
- Call 1-800-725-2726
- Text STORM to 51555 to receive a donation link
- Mail financial donations (checks) to P.O. Box 1959, Atlanta, GA 30301. (Designate ‘2018 Hurricane Season – Michael’ on all checks.)
Local Donation Drop-Off Locations
Bresco
Bresco, a food supply company, has partnered with a network of businesses and organizations on the Florida Pan Handle to provide much-needed supplies that are currently in critically short supply.
All donated items will be shipped to a receiving and distribution facility in Santa Rosa, FL in Bay County and surrounding areas.
Donation Drop Off: 2428 6th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35233. (Located near Bresco’s front entrance on 6th Ave.)
Ensley Fairfield Mattress Co.
Ensley Fairfield Mattress Co. is offering aid to those affected by Hurricane Michael donation items through a donation drop-off.
Drop-Off Locations:
- 1831 28th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209
- 3186 Pelham Pkwy., Pelham, AL 35124
For more information, email Family@efmattress.com or call 205.663.9733.
Accepted Donations:
- Water
- Bug Spray
- Batteries
- Toiletries
- School supplies
- Pet food
- Household items (toilet paper, paper towels, etc.)
- Baby items (food, diapers, wipes)
- Cleaning supplies
- Non-perishable items
- Feminine items
- New pillows/blankets
The City of Birmingham
The City of Birmingham will host a Hurricane Michael Supply Drive at Boutwell Auditorium until Oct. 19. Items can be dropped off between the hours of 8am and 5pm.
Accepted Donations:
- Bottled water
- Canned goods
- Cleaning supplies (Lysol, Chlorox, etc.)
- Mops
- Brooms
- Work gloves
- Rubber gloves
- Shovels
Greater Birmingham Humane Society
Due to the devastation of Hurricane Michael, there are now many pets without basic necessities, even homes. The Greater Birmingham Humane Society is accepting donations to help those animals in need.
Accepted Donations:
- Dog/Cat Food
- Cat Litter
- Dog/Cat Toys
- New Pet Beds
- New Collapsible Crates
- New Leashes
- New Collars
- Rubbermaid Containers
- Tarps
Visit GBHS’s Amazon wish list to purchase items to donate.
For financial donations, click here.
Volunteers are also needed to to rescue animals from affected areas. Become a volunteer.
Contact the Greater Birmingham Humane Society by emailing contactus@gbhs.org or calling 205-942-1213.
Donation Drop Off Location: 300 Snow Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209
The City of Hoover
The City of Hoover is partnering with the Association of Related Churches to help those affected by the storm. The Hoover Fire Dept. will spearhead the efforts.
Items can be dropped off at any fire station location until Nov. 2.
Accepted Donations:
- Tarps with roof tabs
- Baby diapers
- Baby food
- Baby wipes
- Adult diapers
- Non-perishable food
- Canned food with pop tops
- Batteries (all sizes)
- Flashlights
- Bugspray
Helpful Resources
For families, communities and those in the agricultural industry, MichaelRecoveryInfo.com is a helpful resource that provides info on recovery from Hurricane Michael.
When you visit the website, you will find important information on everything from disaster assistance and cleanup to post-storm tree assessment and chainsaw safety.
Who else in the greater Birmingham area is helping those affected by Hurricane Michael? Help us spread the word!
