3 October 2024
[Update, 10/3/24: This story has been updated numerous times since its original publication to include more fundraising and relief efforts. If you have something to add to the list below, contact DCN here.]
Scores of coffee businesses throughout the Southeastern United States are reeling following flooding and human tragedies associated with the storm Helene.
DCN is not aware of any wide-scale disaster relief efforts being led by the U.S. coffee industry trade organizations. However, individual companies and localized efforts are afoot from Florida to Ohio.
Minneapolis-based Mill City Coffee Roasters this week activated an in-house disaster recovery program. The roasting equipment company is waving its technical support fees for professional coffee roasters seeking to get back up and running, with help for all models or brands of coffee roasters. The company is also helping to fulfill “emergency roasting” roasters from its headquarters.
The wreckage and subsequent business interruption caused by Helene has naturally resulted in loss of work for baristas, roastery production workers and others who make coffee come to life for consumers each day.
Companies like North Carolina-based Summit Coffee, who’s RAD Asheville location was gutted by flooding, are encouraging direct purchases of roasted coffees to support affected employees.
As rebuilding in Asheville and other coffee communities commences, here are some recent GoFundMe campaigns and other efforts supporting small coffee businesses, their owners and/or their staff.
DCN will add to this list in the coming days.
NCLocalBusiness.com is a community resource site that connects North Carolina residents with reputable local service businesses. It’s a free resource for all, including small business owners hoping to gain more online exposure.