Asheville Small Businesses Seek Holiday Support After Hurricane Helene

News Summary

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Asheville’s small businesses are struggling to recover from significant damage. Many local shops are banding together to support recovery efforts and rely on holiday sales. Initiatives include donating a portion of profits to local relief efforts, creating special products, and advocating for community support. Residents are encouraged to shop locally to help preserve the town’s unique character during this critical season.

Asheville Small Businesses in Need of Holiday Cheer After Hurricane Helene

Asheville, North Carolina, has always stood out for its charming small businesses that create a unique vibe for the town. However, the recent devastation brought on by Hurricane Helene has left many of these beloved local shops in dire straits. The storm didn’t just impact homes; it wreaked havoc on almost every employer in the area, forcing them to cope with the aftermath.

Hurricane Aftermath: A Losing Battle for Local Businesses

Since the hurricane hit, businesses have been playing a sort of game of whack-a-mole just to keep afloat. Damage to buildings, water supply disruptions, and the need for employees to relocate have created a perfect storm of challenges. Local residents are concerned that if these small businesses don’t bounce back soon, they may be replaced by faceless chain stores, which would rob Asheville of its vibrant character. This holiday season is truly make or break for them, as sales are crucial not only for paying employees but also for ensuring they can keep their doors open into next year.

Community Spirit Shines: Small Businesses Band Together

In the midst of these challenges, a lovely sense of community has emerged. Many small businesses are stepping up by donating a portion of their holiday season sales to local rebuilding efforts. For instance, East Fork Pottery has pledged to donate 5% of their holiday sales to Asheville relief initiatives. Their beautiful home items are produced right from their local factory, making each purchase feel even more meaningful.

Pet owners can also join the cause by shopping at Botanical Bones, a superfood brand that is giving part of their profits to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, which lost its shelter due to the flooding. Meanwhile, Soulku Jewelry, which specializes in unique accessories, is creating “Asheville Strong” necklaces specifically aimed at supporting recovery efforts.

Unique Offerings with a Purpose

Let’s not forget about Sarilla, the sparkling drink brand that is dedicated to donating proceeds from one of their flavors to a rebuilding non-profit in Asheville. On top of that, Moonlight Makers is rolling up their sleeves, screen-printing shirts for local coffee shop Summit Coffee to aid in their recovery from the flooding. Every sip and every purchase helps keep these small businesses vibrant.

Pirani Life, known for their reusable cups, has experienced flood-related damage but has committed to donating 1% of their sales to non-profit partners. Likewise, Everyday Oil, which faced significant damage to their facility, needs holiday support now more than ever. The season is not only about gift-giving; it’s about keeping dreams alive in the community.

Sweet Treats and Other Local Goods

Even brands that have made it into the spotlight, such as French Broad Chocolate—recognized in Oprah’s Favorite Things—are feeling the pinch from production disruptions due to hurricane damage. You might also want to check out Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn, which has launched a flavored gift option, “Popcorn with a Purpose,” donating $2 from each sale to local businesses. Every handful does its part for a good cause!

Legally Addictive is working hard to support fellow small businesses while managing their own water damage, and C&Co. Handcrafted Skincare has been volunteering for cleanup initiatives after the hurricane. Spicewalla, known for its spices, is also focusing on community support as they navigate their own recovery.

Local Specialties to the Rescue

In the spirit of the season, Provisions Mercantile is offering customizable gift boxes filled with unique products from Asheville makers. It’s a fantastic way to spread holiday cheer while supporting the local economy. A dedicated website, Brands of WNC, has also been set up to promote Asheville small businesses and highlight online gift card purchases to bolster support.

Seeking Federal Support for Small Businesses

As many locals know, the road to recovery is not a smooth one. The local economy is still reeling from the impacts of the hurricane, with tourism numbers struggling to bounce back. Federal assistance options like Small Business Administration loans are facing delays, and funding remains uncertain. Local lawmakers are advocating for additional federal support, hoping to mirror the success of previous initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program.

While the holiday season offers a chance for small businesses to showcase their talents and products, a community rallying together could make all the difference. Asheville residents are being encouraged to support these vital local shops and help ensure that their unique spirit continues to thrive in the face of adversity.