Community Resilience Shines Through in Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

Rebecca Carpenter

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, communities in western North Carolina are displaying remarkable resilience as they come together to support one another amid significant devastation. The storm, one of the most catastrophic to impact the region, left a path of destruction characterized by wind damage, downed trees, flooding, and compromised infrastructure, especially in the Asheville area.

Leslie Louis, president of the Carolina Conference, expressed heartfelt sympathy for those who have lost loved ones, stating, “We continue to praise God in the midst of the storm. In times like this, we cling to the assurance that our gracious God is with us,” referencing Isaiah 41:10. “Through God’s providence, not a single member of our congregations was killed in the storm and its aftermath.”

Mount Pisgah Academy closed for three weeks as emergency workers in Buncombe County focused on restoring power and clean water. Thankfully, there was no significant damage to the school. However, the Swannanoa Spanish Church suffered extensive damage and will require significant reconstruction.

Responding to this crisis, the Carolina Conference, under the leadership of David Graham, disaster response director, collaborated with the South Atlantic and South Central conferences to set up warehouses for distribution. Larger warehouses are in the works to serve the needs of western North Carolina for the months to come. Local churches are stepping up to ensure that no one is left out. Volunteers have been clearing debris and delivering truckloads of supplies to the hardest-hit areas.

Many church members have stepped up to provide meals and hot showers, as well as shelter. From outside the Carolinas the outpouring of love has been felt, with donations and volunteers coming from all over the country.

Fletcher Church, in Hendersonville, N.C., emerged as a hub for disaster response, managing Points of Distribution (PODs) for supplies and serving as a home base for volunteers from 2Serve, as well as students from academies and colleges around the North American Division.

Foster Church, known for years in Asheville, N.C., for its community service center, now has opened its doors as a distribution site, with Patrick Williams, pastor, coordinating efforts to provide non- perishable foods and essential supplies. The same is true of the Erwin Hills Church, also in Asheville, N.C., where Art Dmytriev, pastor, and Marcos Bernal, pastor of the Swannanoa Spanish Church, are collaborating to meet the needs of their members and community.

As volunteers continue to step up, the spirit of cooperation remains strong. Louis concluded with a message of hope, urging individuals to support one another through prayers and contributions. “Thank you for your support and compassion during this challenging time,” said Louis.

For information on how to assist or donate, visit the Conference website at http://www.carolinasda.org/.

Carolina | December 2024