The Salon and Spa Relief Fund has created a ‘Hurricanes Harvey and Irma 500 Challenge’ to raise funds for those affected by the recent storms.

The US-based nonprofit organisation is dedicated to helping those in the industry in the event of a disaster and has already distributed US$32,000 to victims of Hurricane Harvey.

However, it has called on the industry to contribute more due to the extent of the damage and the number of institutions and individuals in the spa industry affected. The goal is for 500 businesses to donate US$500 in order to raise a total of US$250,000.

The Salon and Spa Relief Fund was started by Neill Corporation's Debra Neill, whose family has been in the beauty and spa industry for 70 years. Neill is based in Louisiana and has been a distributor for supplier Aveda for the past 40 years.

Neill formed the Salon and Spa Relief Fund in 2005, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. “We were devastated by Katrina and we started raising money for salons and day spas that were affected,” she said.

The money raised can go to individual businesses or even employees affected by disasters. The goal is to get businesses up-and-running as soon as possible, but also to see people through who may be out of work for weeks or months while repairs take place.

Since its inception, the organisation has distributed more than US$200,000 for those dealing with everything from flooding to fires. A board of directors reviews grant applications, but aims to get money to people quickly. For Hurricane Harvey, Neill reported that cheques were distributed to people within 10 days.

Neill said the organisation keeps about US$20,000 in reserve so they are ready to help immediately when a disaster strikes.

“It’s unfortunate, but it seems like it’s going to be an ongoing need,” said Neill. “We’re committed to keeping money in that account because these natural disasters keep coming.”

To donate, visit the Salon and Spa Relief Fund's website by clicking here.