Several group travel and transportation associations have come together to provide critical support to ongoing relief efforts in response to hurricanes Helene and Milton. 

The Tennessee Motorcoach Association, Maryland Motorcoach Association, American Bus Association, and Student Youth and Travel Association have collectively pledged $25,000 to support those in affected communities.

"At the Student Youth and Travel Association, we believe in the power of coming together to support communities in need,” said Carylann Assante, CEO of the Student Youth and Travel Association. “The devastation caused by recent hurricanes has impacted countless families, and we want to help rebuild and restore the communities. By coming together with other leading group travel organizations, we can make a difference and help ensure a brighter future for all those affected by these disasters.”

The funds will be distributed to Mountain Ways, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that partners with local nonprofits and government officials to ensure assistance reaches those most impacted.

"MMA has chosen to combine our resources with other associations to significantly impact those affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Timothy Wilson, president of the Maryland Motorcoach Association. “Our goal is to donate to Mountain Ways through this collaborative effort and come to the aid of the victims in this time of need. We stand in unity and pray for all those affected and all those lending helping hands across the states of North Carolina and Tennessee". 

Mountain Ways provides immediate relief to the victims of Hurricane Helene by distributing essential resources such as food, water, and temporary shelters.

"The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is heartbreaking, and TMCA believes that it's our responsibility to support the victims of Hurricane Helene during this difficult time,” said Jackie Denney, president of the TMCA. “Our recent donation aims to provide relief and assistance to those affected by the hurricane, offering hope and help in the face of adversity to those affected in some small way. Of course, we can only do so because of the years of support we have received from our many members. Our prayers go out to all those affected by Hurricane Helene."

The associations encourage others to join the effort by directly donating to Mountain Ways or other local organizations.