Burnsville, North Carolina
After a successful 72-hours consisting of two trips to Weaverville, we knew our involvement in this disaster relief was not over. Not even close. Dozens of messages came in — many asking for help and even more from those wanting TO help. So after a couple days of networking and planning, we took another trip to Burnsville, North Carolina. This time it was to be four days with eleven team members, five full trailers and thousands of people to impact.
Burnsville is unrecognizable. If the roadways weren’t totally washed away they were at least impassable by fallen trees and debris. Rivers flowed where there once was dry land; the flooding completely rerouted established waterways. The team brought all the necessities: water, diapers, formula, canned food, 750lbs of grass-fed meat from Reverence Farms, first aid supplies, gasoline, diesel fuel, and generators. Farmers and homesteaders brought their own hay and feed supplies. One sweet family even hosted the group despite half of their homestead being destroyed by Hurricane Helene. ATVs were used to reach hollers that cars couldn’t reach and weary feet couldn’t leave from.
We are honored to have been able to answer the call to bring initial lifeline supplies to these towns. Connections were made that will forever be cherished. Devastation and death was seen and cannot be forgotten. The mass destruction this natural disaster left will require years to rebuild. This is a long climb but the mountain will be moved in our collective efforts. There is a great need for helpers and YOU can be a part of that. Be the hands that help rebuild, the feet that go where nobody else will, and the hearts who pray. Appalachia Strong!