In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities throughout North Carolina are working tirelessly to rebuild and recover. While some downtown and hospitality infrastructures escaped the worst of the storm, many areas continue to face significant challenges, including power outages, water service disruptions, and impassable roads. As a once Florida resident and supporter of small businesses there, this really hits home for me. Despite these obstacles, the region is demonstrating its resilience and unity, with residents, businesses, and first responders coming together to support recovery efforts. With key infrastructure like the Asheville Regional Airport and major highways now accessible, relief is arriving, and the focus remains on supporting residents and workers, as well as the many first responders who have traveled from across the country to help.
How You Can Help with Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts:
As Western North Carolina moves through the early stages of recovery, the region’s commitment to rebuilding is on full display. First responders from across the nation have joined local efforts to assist those affected by the hurricane’s floods and widespread power outages. Despite cell service disruptions and water shortages, local businesses have stepped up in remarkable ways, offering food, water, and shelter to both residents and relief workers.
While many parts of the region continue to face significant challenges, communities are coming together in acts of kindness—neighbors checking on one another, restaurants providing meals, and businesses offering safe spaces for those in need. It's times like these that our kindness and unity shine.
Mobilizing Support
With the Asheville Regional Airport open and highways like I-40 East and I-26 accessible, the flow of aid into the region has improved, allowing for faster mobilization of critical supplies. These transportation routes are essential for getting food, water, and medical supplies to the areas most impacted by the storm. Relief efforts are being focused on the immediate needs of residents and workers, ensuring that essential goods reach the hardest-hit communities.
For those looking to support recovery efforts from afar, donations to local organizations are a great way to contribute. Every dollar can help rebuild Western North Carolina and provide much-needed resources to the people and businesses affected. Here are some key ways to help:
Donate directly to organizations like The Salvation Army of North & South Carolina and United Way.
Support Their Food Bank: https://foodbankcenc.org/helene/
If you have. agood or service to provide: https://www.ncvoad.org/how-to-help/
Sign Up to Volunteer here: https://www.nc.gov/working/volunteer-opportunities/volunteernc
Additionally, events like the Concert for Carolina are rallying support for the region and raising funds for long-term recovery efforts. Luke Combs, Eric Church, James Taylor, and Billy Strings are all involved and there is an upcoming raffle and auction as well as donations if you cannot attend.
These initiatives are critical in helping families and communities recover from the devastation.
Strength in Community
Throughout the recovery process, the resilience of North Carolina's people and businesses has been nothing short of inspiring. Even in the face of severe challenges, neighbors are reaching out to support each other, and businesses are finding ways to keep vital services available to both residents and the many first responders who have come to help. This spirit of unity and kindness reflects the strength of a region that remains dedicated to its recovery.
The road ahead will not be easy, but progress is being made every day. North Carolina’s deep-rooted sense of community and resilience is a powerful force driving the recovery efforts forward. With continued support from near and far, there’s hope for a stronger, more unified future for this beautiful region.
North Carolina will emerge stronger, and when the time comes, visitors will once again be welcomed with open arms. Until then, please join me in supporting the Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
Comments