Hurricane Helen has wreaked havoc across several US states, claiming over 240 lives and leaving countless displaced. With power grids down, water supplies contaminated, and entire communities isolated, the affected areas need assistance.
While the federal government has been criticized for its slow response, two Serbian-American companies have stepped up to fill the void.
“Strategic Response Partners,” led by Serbian-American Steve Slepčević, has deployed specialized teams to the hardest-hit areas. These teams are clearing debris, repairing infrastructure, and providing direct aid to survivors. Additionally, the company has launched a fundraising campaign on GiveSendGo, raising over $180,000 to support relief efforts.
Joining the initiative is “Zastava Arms USA,” another Serbian-owned company, which has pledged to donate 10% of its October sales to SRP’s relief fund.
The Serbian community’s outpouring of generosity has garnered widespread social media praise. Americans have expressed gratitude for the timely assistance while criticizing their own government’s inadequate response. Comments on Zastava Arms USA’s social media pages include:
- “Serbs are doing more than the US government!”
- “The South thanks the Serbs.”
- “You are more dedicated than our government.”
- “It’s a shame that our corrupt government isn’t doing more.
- God bless Zastava for their care and assistance.”
- “Respect to the Serbs for stepping up when our corrupt government hasn’t.”
- “God bless you for helping our brothers and sisters.”
- “This is the first arms company I’ve heard of that helped with cleanup. That’s great…”
Both Slepčević and Ristić, the owner of Zastava Arms USA, have expressed concern over the federal government’s slow response, emphasizing the critical role of the private sector in disaster relief.
“We firmly believe that immediate, robust private assistance is essential to bridge the gap and provide the necessary support for recovery,” said Slepčević.
BONDING SERBS AND AMERICANS: Slepčević and Ristić (first and second from the left) are actively involved in the ‘Halyard Foundation,’ pictured with descendants of American pilots saved by Serbs during WWII
Ristić echoed these sentiments, calling for greater unity in the face of tragedy. “I hope our combined efforts will help ease the suffering of those affected by the hurricane. We urge other companies to join this crusade in support of the hurricane victims. Serbian-American businesses should exemplify the spirit of solidarity and community service, demonstrating that collective action can make a significant difference,” he stated.
As the recovery process continues, the actions of these Serbian-American companies serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of human compassion and the ability of individuals to make a real difference in the lives of others.
We remain hopeful that other Serbian-owned companies will join forces with ‘Strategic Response Partners’ and ‘Zastava Arms USA’ in this humanitarian effort. For those who wish to contribute, assistance can be provided through this link: HERE!
Hurricane Helen has so far claimed over 240 lives and caused billions of dollars in damage in seven US states: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.ž
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Article: Antonije Kovačević Photo: Chandan Khanna/AFP via Getty Images, Private