#ToombsStrong, a newly launched initiative to coordinate Hurricane Helene recovery and response, today announced its first major contribution from Georgia-based FanDuel. The $25,000 donation, facilitated by Rep. Leesa Hagan and Sen. Blake Tillery will go to the United Way of Toombs, Montgomery, and Wheeler Counties. This is a critical lifeline to our families, businesses and communities suffering the devastating impacts of the storm. 

"FanDuel is a proud employer in Georgia and is devasted to see the damage across communities many of our team members call home," said Alison Kutler, Vice President, Responsible Gaming and Community Impact at FanDuel. "We are committed to supporting recovery efforts and to aiding the efforts of heroic first responders, and we look forward to continuing to uplift the community as we rebuild."

The donation will support the organization's community­ driven recovery efforts in areas of shelter, medical supplies and food across the region as it works to recover from the catastrophic damage of Hurricane Helene.

“On behalf of the families and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to FanDuel for their incredible generosity, said Sen. Blake Tillery “This is the first major contribution toward our recovery efforts, and through our #ToombsStrong partnership with the United Way of Toombs, Montgomery, and Wheeler Counties, these funds will go directly to helping families rebuild their lives. Your support will make a lasting difference in our community’s recovery and resilience.” 

“The people and communities of House District 156, which includes Toombs County, continue to demonstrate their resilience and strength as we begin the long process of rebuilding after Hurricane Helene, said Rep. Leesa Hagan. “#ToombsStrong is more than a slogan—it’s a reflection of our determination and spirit. I am grateful for FanDuel’s generous contribution to support our recovery efforts. This donation will help us restore what was lost and ensure that our district comes back stronger than ever."

FanDuel employees in its Atlanta office will also collect essential relief supplies for those affected by the storm and first responders, including non-perishable food, water, clothing, hygiene products, baby supplies and first-aid materials.

“Rep. Leesa Hagan and Sen. Blake Tillery’s leadership throughout Southeast Georgia, including Toombs County, during Hurricane Helene emergency operations–from preparedness efforts to debris removal to local response coordination–has been critical in helping our community survive and recover, said Toombs County Commission Chairman David Sikes, Lyons Mayor Willis NeSmith and Vidalia Mayor Doug Roper in a joint statement. 

“Their support of our #ToombsStrong United Way of Toombs Montgomery Wheeler Counties partnership helped facilitate our first sizable donation, for which we are so blessed. Today, Georgia-based FanDuel have generously donated $25,000 to support immediate needs. We are immensely grateful for their assistance and look forward to getting this critical aid to our families and communities in need.”