In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Western North Carolina has faced immense challenges, with so many areas left devastated. Yet, even amid the destruction, our community’s resilience shines through as neighbors step up to support one another. The power of community is not only in the hands willing to help clear debris or deliver essentials but also in the shared hope we carry together. When we come together to help each other, the journey to recovery becomes lighter. Here are some ways locals can get involved, along with the many benefits that giving back can bring to both the givers and receivers.

Opportunities to Volunteer Locally

Clearing Debris and Assisting with Repairs: Helping neighbors clear fallen trees, debris, and damaged property is one of the simplest ways to provide support. Grab a pair of gloves, join neighbors, or reach out to local cleanup teams. Your efforts can ease a huge burden for families overwhelmed by storm damage.

Distributing Essentials and Supplies: Many residents are in immediate need of basic supplies like food, water, and hygiene products. Volunteers can join efforts to gather and deliver these essentials to distribution sites, shelters, and directly to families in need.

Providing Temporary Shelter or Resources: If you have space or supplies to spare, consider offering them to someone in need, even temporarily. Shelters may also need volunteers to assist in managing donated supplies or organizing temporary lodging.

Local Organizations Seeking Volunteers and Donations

To help streamline your efforts, here is a list of local organizations actively seeking volunteers and donations to support recovery from Hurricane Helene:

• United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County: They have established a Hurricane Helene Relief Fund to support immediate and long-term recovery efforts in the community. Donations can be made through their website. https://givebutter.com/nnU5fa
• Always Asheville Fund – Organized by Explore Asheville, this fund supports small businesses in Asheville and Buncombe County that were heavily impacted by Helene. It focuses on grants, not loans, to help local travel and hospitality businesses recover. For more details, you can visit: https://always.exploreasheville.com/always-asheville-fund
• Community Foundation of Western North Carolina: This organization has set up an Emergency and Disaster Fund to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. You can contribute via their website: https://cfwnc.org/
• BeLoved Asheville: A grassroots organization focused on providing food access, affordable housing, and healthcare. They are actively involved in relief efforts and accept donations online: https://www.belovedasheville.com/

• MANNA FoodBank: As part of Feeding America, MANNA addresses food security and provides essential items to those in need. They are currently seeking donations to support their disaster relief efforts: https://donate.mannafoodbank.org/?source=lb
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): Open to volunteers with various skills, this team provides vital assistance in everything from disaster response to counseling. Reach out if you have a skill you’d like to offer: https://www.handsonasheville.org/need/detail/?need_id=642900
• Local Shelters and Churches: Many churches and shelters have opened their doors to those in need of refuge, and they welcome both monetary donations and physical help in managing resources and preparing meals.

The Therapeutic Power of Giving Back

For many of us, facing the aftermath of a natural disaster brings immense stress and anxiety. Giving back provides a powerful antidote. Studies show that volunteering can foster a sense of purpose, lessen feelings of helplessness, and create bonds of solidarity in times of crisis. When you volunteer or donate, you’re not only helping others—you’re also helping yourself find a sense of control and healing. The act of helping others strengthens emotional resilience and reinforces a connection to the community that will be essential as we rebuild.

By lending our hands and hearts, we transform hardship into healing and despair into hope.