A GoFundMe page authorized by former President Donald Trump to help victims of Hurricane Helene had raised more than $1.7 million as of early Tuesday, eclipsing its goal of $1 million.

The page says more than 9,000 people have donated.

“With so many across the Southeastern U.S. facing challenges after the storm, President Trump is on the ground in communities to see the aftermath firsthand,” the page says. “All donations will be directed to help those most affected by Hurricane Helene.”

The “top donation” is listed as “Senator Kelly Loeffler,” at $500,000.

Ms. Loeffler is a Republican businesswoman who served in the U.S. Senate in 2020 and 2021 after Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp appointed her to the seat. She lost the regular election in 2021 to Democrat Raphael Warnock.

Other notable names include hedge fund manager William Ackman, Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White and Bass Pro Shops, at $100,000 apiece; and performer Kid Rock, at $20,000.

Mr. Trump, the GOP presidential nominee, surveyed the damage and addressed victims of Helene in Valdosta, Georgia, on Monday.

The storm made landfall in Florida over the weekend and ripped through the Southeast, killing at least 130 people along a 500-mile path. Hundreds more are missing.

Western North Carolina was particularly devastated, with whole neighborhoods wiped out and towns made inaccessible due to road impediments.

President Biden directed Deanne Criswell, administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to remain in Asheville, North Carolina, to direct the response.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, visited FEMA headquarters in Washington on Monday to thank workers.

• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.