Rebuilding Together After Hurricane Helene
Western NC has always been resilient, and we take pride in our deep connection to nature, mountains, and our community. But in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the destruction left hit close to home. The businesses we have loved for years are struggling to recover, and nonprofits helping our communities are stretched thin.
In times like this, the importance of unity cannot be overstated. As we begin the journey of rebuilding and recovery, Acony Bell is committed to supporting our local businesses and non-profit organizations in Mills River, Brevard, Asheville, and around NC.
Local businesses and nonprofits are the backbone of our community, bringing the eclectic feel that many have come to know and love about this region. After Hurricane Helene, many struggle to reopen, repair their facilities, or continue their critical operations. To support them in this time of need, we will be featuring local establishments, sharing their stories, and providing information on how you can help them.
How Can You Help NOW?
- Shop Local. Every time you buy from a local store, you’re giving back to the community. Grab groceries from a local market, shop from local artisans, drink local brews, and eat out at your local neighborhood spot. Your support helps small businesses get back on their feet.
- Donate. Our local nonprofits have been working nonstop to help people and families displaced by the storm. Donating resources directly benefits those hit hardest by the hurricane. Every bit helps keep these crucial services going. See our list below.
- Get the Word Out. Spread the message! Use social media to promote local businesses and nonprofits. Share stories of recovery and resilience. Every interaction, like, share, and comment, gets the word out and inspires others to help.
- Volunteer. Many nonprofits need extra hands right now. Whether you’ve got an hour or a weekend, your help can make a difference.
Here are Some Vetted Grassroots Organizations that Need Your Help Now More than Ever
BeLoved Asheville
With the ongoing support, Beloved Asheville is pouring all its resources into helping those hit hardest by this disaster. The priorities are providing essential items like food, water, and healthcare to ensure immediate stability. To support them, check out the details below:
Manna Foodbank
Manna’s facility took a direct hit from Hurricane Helene, but the team’s spirit remains strong and unshaken. Through the resilience of everyone in Manna and their partnership with WNC Farmers Market, they resumed the food, water, and supplies distribution. To support them, refer to the details below:
- Address: 627 Swannanoa River Road, Asheville, NC 28805-2445
- Contact: (1) 828-299-3663, endhunger@mannafoodbank.org
- Website: mannafoodbank.org
- Facebook, Instagram, YouTube
- To donate food and supplies, click here.
- To donate money, click here.
- To volunteer, create an account on their Volunteer Portal.
Equal Plates Project
They urgently need your support to purchase from local farmers, acquire equipment to scale production, and donate thousands of meals in the coming 100 days. To support them, refer to the details below:
- Address: PO Box 2032, Asheville, NC 28802
- Contact: (1) 828-337-4710, madi@equalplatesproject.org
- Website: equalplatesproject.org
- Facebook, Instagram
- To donate money, click here.
It Takes a Village
Let’s help these local businesses recover and nonprofits scale up. Encourage your neighbors to support them too, and spread the word—every small thing helps as we rebuild together. At the end of the day, recovery is something we’ll tackle as a community, one day at a time. We’ve braved plenty of storms, and we’ve always bound to come back stronger. Join us in this effort and together, we can make a difference.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and stay tuned for our next content and stories. Together, we are #WNCStrong.