Airbnb.org is calling on hosts to open their homes to people displaced by Hurricane Helene. The organization is offering free or discounted stays to those in need and waiving all service fees.
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| Airbnb is activating its Major Disruptive Events Policy for areas affected by Hurricane Helene. This means hosts can cancel bookings without penalty and guests can receive full refunds. Image Courtesy: Airbnb |
San Francisco, California, USA – October 1, 2024:
In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact, Airbnb.org, the company's non-profit arm, is stepping up to offer a lifeline to displaced residents in Florida and North Carolina. By providing free temporary housing, Airbnb.org is working tirelessly to ensure that those affected by the hurricane have a safe and secure place to stay.
Partnering with local non-profits like the Florida United Methodist Conference (FLUMC) and 211 contact centers, Airbnb.org is connecting individuals who have lost their homes or were forced to evacuate with welcoming accommodations. These partnerships are essential in identifying those in greatest need and efficiently connecting them with available housing options.
Airbnb.org's initiative is a testament to the power of community and the generosity of its hosts. Danielle, a host from Tampa, Florida, exemplifies this spirit by offering her home to those displaced by the hurricane. Her willingness to open her doors during such a difficult time is a beacon of hope for those in need.
This is not the first time Airbnb.org has stepped up to provide disaster relief. The organization has a proven track record of offering emergency housing to individuals impacted by various crises, including wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Their commitment to helping those in need is unwavering.
To access temporary housing through Airbnb.org, residents in Florida can contact FLUMC at (863) 688-5563 or (800) 282-8011 (toll-free) or dial 211 to reach their local contact center. In North Carolina, residents should contact their local 211 contact center.
For those interested in offering their homes to displaced individuals, Airbnb.org encourages them to sign up as hosts. By providing free or discounted stays, hosts can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the hurricane. Airbnb waives all service fees for these bookings and offers damage protection and insurance to hosts.
Beyond providing housing, Airbnb.org is also accepting donations to support its relief efforts. One hundred percent of donations will go directly towards covering the cost of temporary stays for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Airbnb has further demonstrated its commitment to supporting affected communities by activating its Major Disruptive Events Policy for severely impacted areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. This policy allows hosts to cancel bookings without penalty and guests to receive full refunds.
Airbnb.org's swift response to Hurricane Helene is a testament to the company's dedication to making a positive impact on the world. By providing essential support to displaced residents, Airbnb.org is offering a glimmer of hope during a time of great need.