In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which struck the southeastern U.S. as a Category 4 storm, Robby Starbuck turned to his “X Family” to rally support for the recovery efforts. The hurricane first made landfall in Florida, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and destruction, and its effects quickly spread across several states, including Tennessee, where Starbuck focused his aid efforts.

Eastern Tennessee was particularly hard-hit, with high winds causing widespread power outages and floods making roads impassable. Debris from the storm left many families stranded. Starbuck, determined to make a difference, called on his followers to help with much-needed supplies and coordination.

“Alright 𝕏 family, here’s how we can all help the people who were hit hardest by the storm in TN. I’m working with state reps @JasonZacharyTN and @JeremyFaison4TN to make sure the supplies get to those who need it most. We also have 10 @Starlink’s on the way right now!” Starbuck shared, encouraging people to contribute. He added a list of needed supplies, suggesting, “It may be a good idea to reply to this with a screenshot of what you bought so others try to mix it up with what they purchase. If you can’t afford to help right now we totally understand. Just share this post so others have a way to help!”

Throughout the day, Starbuck posted updates and photos showing the extent of the damage in some of the hardest-hit areas. One update highlighted the situation in Trade, Tennessee, where roads and bridges were washed out, making it difficult for residents to communicate.

“This is the condition of Trade, TN right now. We’re coordinating with @blainelipford1 for my ground operation team to get them a Starlink setup. Blaine had to drive 30 mins to get service to send these photos out. Pray for the people there!” Starbuck posted, sharing photos of the devastation, including floodwaters and debris-blocked roads.

Starbuck also criticized the federal government’s slow response, which occurred while President Joe Biden was at his beach house and Vice President Kamala Harris attended a Hollywood fundraiser. “Not joking: Between @nicksortor and I, I think we’re legitimately installing more Starlink’s than the federal government is. This is ludicrous,” he remarked.

The town of Roan Mountain was another focus of Starbuck’s efforts. “Roan Mountain is absolutely devastated from the storm. @RepHarshbarger just visited Roan and called me when she got back to let me know there’s no service up there. I directed my team to send 2 of our Starlink’s there so people will have a way to communicate. Pray for them,” he wrote, alongside a video showing the extent of the flooding in the area.

As donations continued to pour in, Starbuck expressed his gratitude. “The response to this has been incredible. I don’t think you guys realize what a difference you’re making for East TN with your orders. The power of @X is truly incredible and y’all never cease to amaze me. I forgot to add rakes, diapers, wipes and batteries to the list but that can help too! Keep this going by sharing this post below,” he encouraged his followers.

Thanks to the combined efforts of his community and local representatives, Starbuck’s initiative brought critical supplies and communication tools to the storm-ravaged regions of Tennessee, offering a lifeline to those in need.