Article Summary –
Western North Carolina faced severe devastation from Hurricane Helene, prompting community mobilization. Stories of individuals like Jennie Bull highlight survival amid landslides. Over 2,500 volunteers in Asheville conducted wellness checks. Aid included Latino-led efforts in Burke County, as well as church assistance in Spruce Pine. Over time, the region’s recovery will need cash support, infrastructure rebuilds, and community input. Concerns are rising about potential youth exodus due to future uncertainties.
North Carolina’s Mountain Towns Hit Hard by Helene: Community Reactions and Next Steps
Two weeks ago, western North Carolina experienced devastating flooding. Residents of Yancey County, like Jennie Bull from Burnsville, faced relentless rain before Hurricane Helene struck on Sept. 27. Bull’s quick decision to move her car saved her house from sliding down a mountain during a massive landslide.
“I heard a roaring sound, and a landslide hit my house,” Bull recounted. Her house was pushed off its foundation but was stopped by her car. Neighbors quickly rescued Bull and her cat, Lily.
Across the region, the community rallied. In Buncombe County, telecommunications failed, leaving many unable to reach loved ones. Over 2,500 volunteers in Asheville conducted 15,982 wellness checks, alleviating pressure on emergency services. Drew Reisinger, Register of Deeds, spearheaded the initiative from his office.
A “Flush Brigade” helped meet sanitation needs by using water rations to flush toilets, crucial as Asheville faced a severe water crisis. Residents like Page Marshall emphasized the need for water, highlighting the ongoing struggle for basic necessities.
Latino Students Step Up in Burke County
In Burke County, Sandra Aguirre and volunteers from the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULACNC) distributed food, water, and supplies. “We have people calling us, telling us we need food, we need water,” Aguirre said. The Latino community, hit hard by Helene, saw factory and field closures, impacting jobs and incomes.
Spruce Pine Church Provides Relief
Reverend Holly McKim of Spruce Pine United Methodist Church rapidly became pivotal in post-Helene recovery. With water systems destroyed, the church became a hub for distributing supplies, working alongside 50 volunteers. State Sen. Ralph Hise estimated a four-year recovery for infrastructure.
McKim praised the community’s resilience: “When the rain stopped, people started clearing trees from houses and yards.” Spruce Pine town council member Jackie Rensink highlighted the town’s severe infrastructure challenges.
Long-term Recovery Efforts
The future for western North Carolina remains uncertain. Residents like Landon Beaver stress the necessity of monetary aid to support those who lost wages. The General Assembly approved a $273 million aid package, but Landon insists more is needed for infrastructure.
For Tausha Forney, engaging with local voices is crucial for effective recovery. Despite federal aid, she emphasizes that each community’s needs vary: “Our needs are different, and it can’t be a blanket response.”
Chelsea White fears Helene’s impact could drive young people away, exacerbating existing regional issues. “We can’t keep our hospitals staffed or teachers on board. This will only worsen,” she said.
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