After the devastating Hurricane Helena, residents of several Atlantic coast states in the United States are facing enormous human and material losses. Entire communities have been virtually destroyed, many people are without power and water, and thousands are cut off from the world.
Two Serbian-American companies have taken significant steps to support those affected, filling the gaps left by federal aid.
Strategic Response Partners, led by Steve Slepčević, a Serbian from California, has been directly engaged on the ground in the heart of the disaster, clearing debris, repairing infrastructure, and assisting residents. Slepčević’s company has been instrumental in bringing urgently needed aid to those who need it most.
Always Where They’re Needed Most: SRP Special Teams on the Ground from Day One
Beyond their physical presence, Strategic Response Partners has launched a fundraising initiative on GiveSendGo, raising over $180,000 in donations so far. This fund aims to bolster their relief operations and provide immediate support.
“URGENT HELP NEEDED! Devastating Scenes After Hurricane Helen
Another Serbian-owned American company, Zastava Arms USA, an authorized importer of weapons from the Serbian factory “Zastava Arms” from Kragujevac, owned by Ranko Ristić, has pledged to donate 10% of its October sales to the SRP fund.
Weapons for Good, Hearts for Help: Zastava Arms USA Steps Up
This generous commitment aims to provide the necessary financial support for the affected communities.
Both Slepčević and Ristić expressed concern over the insufficient involvement of state and federal agencies, highlighting the critical need for private sector engagement.
-We firmly believe that immediate, strong private assistance is essential to bridge the gap and provide the necessary support for recovery. We are proud to stand with our American compatriots during this difficult time,” Slepčević told Serbian Times, emphasizing the importance of altruism in the face of overwhelming adversity.
SERBIAN AMBASSADORS IN THE US: Ristić (left) and Slepčević (right) are also active in the ‘Halyard Foundation,’ pictured with a descendant of American airmen saved by Serbs in WWII.
Ristić reiterated the importance of a swift response in such moments:
-I hope that our joint efforts will help alleviate the suffering of those affected by the hurricane. We call on other companies to join this crusade in supporting the victims of the hurricane. Our Serbian-American businessmen should represent the spirit of solidarity and community support, showing that collective action can make a significant difference,” Ristić told our portal.
It is hoped that other companies owned by Serbs will join the initiative of Strategic Response Partners and Zastava Arms USA, which currently represent a beacon of hope. Everyone who wants to help can do it HERE!
Hurricane Helena has so far claimed over 220 lives and caused billions of dollars in damage in seven U.S. states: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Article by: Antonije Kovacevic Photo: Private archive