TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan announced a donation of US$800,000 to assist in disaster response and recovery efforts in the southeastern United States as Hurricane Helene continues to cause devastation.

In a press release on Saturday (Oct. 12), Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) stated it will contribute US$800,000 to the US states most severely impacted by the hurricane. The funds include US$300,000 each for Florida and North Carolina, and US$200,000 for Georgia.

MOFA noted, "Taiwan is frequently hit by typhoons in summer and autumn" and "deeply empathizes with those who have suffered tremendous losses in life and property." It added that Taiwan shares a strong connection with the American people and is eager to offer assistance.

In a tweet, MOFA added: “Our hearts go out to those who were devastated by Hurricane Helene. At this tragic time, we’re donating US$800,000 for reconstruction efforts in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia, underscoring the profound bond between Taiwan and the US.”

Taiwan’s overseas missions in Miami, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia, will discuss how to transfer the donations to relevant US agencies.

On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in the US, triggering disastrous flooding and landslides that have ravaged neighborhoods. The storm has claimed at least 227 lives across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, with many individuals still missing.