Last week Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction across Florida, Georgia, Tennesee, and the Carolinas. More than a hundred lives have been lost with hundreds more still missing, thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed, millions have been left without power, and lots of small communities and roads have been completely wiped off the map.
Some of the worst storm damage has been done to Asheville (and other areas of Western North Carolina), leaving many in devastating situations.
Here’s how you can help.
Where To Donate
There are many organizations collecting donations right now, and if you’re like me, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which one to donate to. That’s why I want to highlight Save Our Allies, an organization with boots on the ground in Western NC that’s making an impact.
Sarah Verardo, who’s not only the CEO of The Independence Fund and co-founder of Save Our Allies but also a personal friend of mine, has spent years helping U.S. military forces overseas. With the death toll continuing to rise and the devastation leaving the region in similar conditions to a war zone, Save Our Allies is currently focusing on evacuation efforts in Western NC and distributing essential supplies to those in need.
Small Business Support
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has devastated small businesses across Asheville and surrounding areas, leaving many struggling to recover. With entire buildings destroyed and local tourism at a standstill, business owners are facing immense challenges. There’s an incredible amount of grief across the region as communities try to rebuild amidst the destruction. Another way to help is by visiting other operating locations and supporting these businesses, allowing them to regain some stability during this difficult time.
Here are a few small businesses that have operations in Asheville and Charlotte. I will continue to update this list, so PLEASE let me know if there are small businesses I can add.
- Burial Beer Co.: Follow for updates HERE.
- Botiwalla: If you’re near any of their sister restaurants in Atlanta or Charlotte, you can add a donation directly to your check the next time you dine. These donations will go directly to our staff at @chaipani, @botiwallaasheville, and @spicewalla while these businesses remain closed. Follow for updates HERE.
- Cantina Louie: A Go Fund Me has been set up for AVL staff HERE.
- Chop Shop Butchery: All staff accounted for. Follow for updates HERE.
- Crave Dessert Bar
- French Broad Chocolates: All online orders will support their efforts to recover from catastrophic flooding and re-establish operations. Follow for updates HERE.
- Hi-Wire Brewing: AVL location submerged. Follow for updates HERE.
- Summit Coffee: the Asheville River Arts District location was completely lost. This week, 100% of the online coffee order proceeds will be donated to support the RAD baristas. Follow for updates HERE.
- Tupelo Honey: The South Asheville location will be feeding the AVL community buffet-style for FREE starting October 3rd for at least 5 days. Follow for updates HERE.
- White Duck Taco Shop: Substantial damage to AVL locations. Follow for updates HERE.
- Wicked Weed Brewing: There’s a location in the CLT airport. Follow for AVL updates HERE.
Caley
Thursday 3rd of October 2024
You are incredibly kind and so supportive my friend, thank you for sharing. My heart is broken at the devastating loss and destruction this terrible disaster has caused x