Helping our Neighbors in Western North Carolina
Western North Carolina - and Asheville specifically - is so dear to us... it’s the first place we travelled as a married couple; it’s where we’ve helped other friends start their marriages; it’s home to our very favorite breweries; it’s one of the best places for a family vacation full of art, fun, & of course hiking; and it’s completely devastated.
Hurricane Helene completely rocked the region and we have been doing our very best to help thru monetary donations, supporting businesses who are donating proceeds from their sales, and donating actual goods that are needed right now. Will you help do the same?
See below for ways that YOU can help too:
The best way to help Western North Carolina recover is with a monetary donation. NC has established the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund which is managed by United Way of North Carolina. Donations are being used to provide grants to nonprofits working directly in impacted communities in WNC.
Other reputable charities are also collecting money to help with Helene relief, including North Carolina Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster. VOADS are vetted disaster relief nonprofit organizations that work in with state and federal agencies to deliver supplies and services to North Carolinians in need.
We also recommend the Red Cross, Local Food Banks and Shelters (e.g., MANNA FoodBank, Interfaith Food Shuttle), and the Western NC Community Foundation.
If you’re able to, consider volunteering with organizations that are helping with clean-up and rebuilding efforts. There’s a need for both on-the-ground assistance in Western NC and logistical support in Raleigh. Check with the following groups for volunteer opportunities:
North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NC VOAD): As mentioned above, they collaborate with local organizations to coordinate disaster response and relief. Visit their website to sign up for volunteer shifts or find out more about donation needs.
If you prefer to donate items, several local organizations in Raleigh are organizing collection drives. Some of the most needed items include:
Toiletries (toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
Feminine Hygiene Products
Non-perishable food items
Baby supplies (diapers, formula, wipes)
Cleaning Supplies; Duct Tape
Shovels (new or used); Push Brooms
Rubber Work Boots; Work Gloves; Duct Tape
Camping Stoves; Portable Grills; Heaters
Generators; New gas cans; Propane; Charcoal
Solar Chargers; Solar Lanterns; LED Lanterns
Flashlights; Batteries;
Tents; Tarps; Sleeping Bags; Survival Blankets
Hand Warmers; Warm Blankets; Warms Hats, Gloves (Child and Adult)
Donations are being collected at the Trophy Brewing warehouse location: Electric Supply Co. 207 Bickett BLVD, Raleigh 27608, 10 to at 3 everyday in conjunction with Operation Airdrop, a 501 (C) (3) based out of Texas.
Many other donation drop off sites have been established but are changing regularly. Check NC211 for an updated list of organizations collecting items for transport to the disaster area.
And of course - it goes without saying - once we’re able to get back to the mountains - let’s get out there and support the local businesses! Many towns are already OPEN and need your support including: Bryson City, Murphy, Dillsboro, Andrews, Franklin, Cherokee, Highlands, Sapphire, Cashiers, Maggie Valley, Sylva, Waynesville, Natahala, & Culowhee.
Until then…check for your favorite WNC vendors online to see how you can support them in the meantime.
In times like these, it’s heartening to see how communities come together to support one another. Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes a difference. Let’s show our neighbors in Western NC that Raleigh stands with them.