For those of us watching in horror as Florida, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee come to grips with the devastation left by Hurricane Helene, the first thought might be “I need to help. Now.”

Whether the urge is to send money, send supplies or volunteer, we might have to be more patient than we’d like.

Federal Emergency Management Agency guidance begins with something that might come as a surprise. Should you be trying to contact someone in the affected regions, text rather than calling. Texting leaves the lines open for emergencies.

FEMA goes on to note that sending cash donations is the most effective way to help. Learn how to do so safely here: www.fema.gov/disaster/recover/volunteer-donate or here: www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/.

In each affected state, there are National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, through which those hoping to take a hands-on approach can find out how to join work sites. Each state’s site will include lists of opportunities to volunteer. But not yet.

FEMA is clear. “There is no request for donations outside of cash. Do not send unsolicited donated goods, and please do not self-deploy.”

North Carolina’s VOAD site says “Helene work sites have not yet been established,” and recommends potential volunteers check back regularly.

Nearly everywhere one looks to find out more, there are warnings that amount to “Do not try to come down here to help, yet.”

For now, if you can, send money. (Only send if you are certain you are dealing with a reputable organization.) Don’t stop checking in on when disaster relief organizations are able to accept your supplies and maybe your time and effort.

The time will come soon enough. We know those struggling to recover in Helene-hit areas will need all the help they can get. Let’s do it right.