Asheville Rallies Together After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation
Asheville, North Carolina has been reeling from the effects of Hurricane Helene, which swept through the Southeast, leaving a path of major flooding and destruction in its wake. The impact has been particularly harsh in Western North Carolina, where homes and communities have faced unprecedented challenges.
Families Face Difficulties in the Aftermath
The ongoing aftermath of Helene has forced families like that of Kyesha Nelson and TJ Wilson to make long, difficult walks throughout Asheville in their search for necessary supplies for their baby, Tykwon. Just six months old and born prematurely, Tykwon requires specific milk not readily available where they are currently staying. After evacuating from their home in Fairview to find refuge with Wilson’s mother in Hillcrest, the duo is doing its best to navigate the tough conditions.
“I just have to get my baby somewhere I can walk around,” Nelson recalled. However, their temporary home in Hillcrest has been without power or running water, adding another layer of stress to an already taxing situation.
Transportation Woes
Without a car, Nelson and Wilson rely on Asheville’s public transportation system, which has faced significant disruptions since the storm hit. A recent notice from the city announced that the bus system had been diverted to focus on relief efforts, bringing hundreds to shelters in need. But residents, especially in low-income housing communities like Hillcrest, are getting creative to find their way without public transit.
“When you have smaller children, walking is not always the best thing you can do,” Nelson expressed, highlighting the challenges faced by families who lack reliable transportation. As the weeks drag on, residents worry about how they will acquire essential items, with many without access to fresh water.
Community Struggles and Support
Not far away, in West Asheville’s Pisgah View Apartments, Cicely Rogers echoes similar frustrations. With family nearby but unable to reach her due to flooded roads, she laments the extra stress that comes from maneuvering around a disrupted city. “Water is the chief concern for many,” Rogers stated, as accessing fresh water has become an increasing challenge for the community.
Even though water supplies are limited, the community has come together to help one another. Tykerria Robinson-Williams, another resident of Pisgah View, expressed her concern over how much the storm might set back her neighbors and the challenges they face in an already tough environment. “We really can’t afford to leave our homes behind,” she said.
Efforts to Provide Aid
Local authorities and community organizers are stepping up to assist those in need. Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder reported that the county has been collaborating with various partners to distribute food and water to the hardest-hit areas. Community paramedics have been on the ground taking essential supplies to public housing communities, ensuring that residents have access to the necessities.
“I’m just counting on my friends to look out for me,” said Reggie Moore, a resident of Deaverview community, sharing that friends and neighbors are vital in these tough times, especially for the elderly.
Local Initiatives and Togetherness
One resident, who chose to remain unnamed, shared how she has been relying on public transport, which is currently out of operation, to get around. She worries that even if she is able to walk downtown, she might not find what she needs. Through it all, the community spirit of Asheville shines as different residents step in to help where they can.
In Hillcrest, long-term resident Lolita Ray recounted having to rely on family for rides to stores like Sam’s Club since the bus service is unavailable. She has taken it upon herself to clean up the streets, stating, “Right now, we all need to pull our part and come together.”
As the afternoon sun set over Hillcrest, the community center buzzed with activity as residents carried out diapers, snacks, and bottled water from a recent donation drive. It is clear that through teamwork and support, the residents of Asheville are determined to weather the storm.
Although the road to recovery will be long and challenging, the resilience of the people of Asheville continues to shine through. A community united is a community that can overcome any obstacle, and they are well on their way.
