Asheville Unites: New Community Resources and Safety Measures Amid Recent Weather Challenges

Asheville Comes Together: Community Resources and Safety Updates

Asheville, NC, is shining a light on its spirit of community and resilience during these challenging times. With the recent weather events and the urgent needs of many residents, local organizations have stepped up to create essential resources that lend a helping hand to those in need.

Introducing the Resource Map

One incredible initiative is the resource map created by Asheville on Bikes, which has become a crucial tool for many. This map is not just a tech gadget; it’s a lifeline for those searching for basic services. It includes locations for food, drinking water, showers, laundry facilities, and even restaurants and early voting spots. If you need to find any of these resources, you can easily check it out at Asheville Recovery Resources.

To access this helpful map, head over to this link. It’s all about making sure everyone can get support when they need it.

Community Care Stations: A Safe Haven

Another amazing resource is the Community Care Stations spread across Asheville. These stations offer a variety of essential services to the public, including showers, laundry, restrooms, and access to potable and non-potable water. Connect with others while benefiting from counseling services too!

These facilities are open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM, and they welcome people to bring towels, shower shoes, and toiletries if they can. Don’t worry; they also provide items for those who need them. What’s even better is that all resources at these stations are ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for everyone, including individuals with disabilities.

One of the community care locations is at AC Reynolds High School, where Novant Health operates a community care cruiser. This mobile unit is available every day and provides urgent care services, obstetric and pediatric connections, and even offers a mobile pharmacy. It’s heartening to see such generosity!

Warm Hearts Initiative Heaters

As the chilly weather sets in, folks in Buncombe County have yet another reason to be thankful. The Warm Hearts Initiative is donating 150 Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heaters next week. These heaters are prioritized for individuals who are without adequate heating at home. There’s a limit of one heater per person or household, and delivery arrangements can be made for those unable to pick up their heaters.

If you’re interested in this warming relief, remember to register online!

Important Water Updates

In a separate but crucial update, if you are a City of Asheville water customer, be advised that you are currently under a boil water notice. This means the tap water isn’t safe to drink unless it has been boiled vigorously for at least one minute. While waiting for the water to be safe, here are some things you can use it for:

• Doing laundry
• Showering (just don’t swallow the water)
• Handwashing (avoid before food prep)
• Washing dishes (make sure water temp is 170°F or higher)
• Flushing toilets

Make sure to follow the recommendations provided to keep your home and family safe while you wait for the water issue to be resolved. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call customer service at 828-251-1122.

Safety on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Lastly, let’s talk about the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re planning a visit, please note that the entire North Carolina section is closed due to flooding and downed trees. It’s essential to respect these closures for your safety and to help the crews working hard to assess and stabilize the area. Updates will be shared promptly, so be patient, and stay safe out there!

As residents of Asheville, we have the power to lift each other up during these times. Let’s continue to support one another by accessing the available resources, sharing information, and staying safe.