Hurricane Helene Highlights the Importance of Our Political Work

At least 100 people have lost their lives to Hurricane Helene across the South. Millions remain without power, water, and cell phone service. In Western North Carolina, where SURJ had been knocking doors and making calls for weeks, the immediate relief need is so acute that SURJ can’t immediately resume calling or canvassing. The basic infrastructure of phones and roads is now lacking, and people are focused on meeting their basic needs. See the moving resources section below for ways to support the disaster relief financially.

However, far from being a time to “not politicize” disasters, it’s essential to draw attention to the existential threat that a Trump presidency would have on us. Project 2025, which was created to be implemented during a second Trump presidency, would cut relief to hurricane victims and eliminate the National Weather Service, NOAA, and FEMA. 

In the wake of disaster and in the face of the threat of this horrific approach to disaster response and climate change, we are doubling down on our conviction to stop a pernicious MAGA and elect Kamala Harris!

In addition to ongoing phonebanking, SURJ NYC is organizing two weekend canvassing trips to key swing states! Door-to-door canvassing is one of the most effective ways to increase voter turnout – it’s also a great skill-building experience and fun!

SURJ NYC Trip to Western NC
Friday, Oct 18th – Sunday, Oct 20th
SURJ NYC is heading to Asheville, NC for a weekend of canvassing with SURJ National. Our NYC chapter crew will spend the weekend together, canvassing beneath the Blue Ridge Mountains and staying together in Asheville, where we’ll knock doors with SURJ members from around the country. If you can commit to at least two days of canvassing, financial support is available for travel and lodging, if needed.

NOTE: there may be updates to this trip due to the dynamic situation in Asheville, but for now it is still on.

SURJ NYC Canvassing in Philadelphia
Friday, Oct 25th – Sunday, Oct 27th
The following weekend, SURJ NYC is going to canvass a little closer to home with UNITE HERE Philly! Join us for one, two, or three days. For those committing to at least two days of canvassing, financial support is available for travel and lodging, if needed.

For both trips, we will canvass, hang out, and stay overnight with other SURJ NYC members. Come for a fun weekend doing important work to elect Kamala Harris and local down-ballot candidates!

Are you interested in joining us for either canvassing trip? Fill out this form! 
Not sure if you can join but you’re curious?
Fill out the form anyway!

If none of these dates work for you, please check out other canvassing options in swing states with SURJ National and Seed the Vote.

We can’t wait to see you there!

SURJ NYC