Asheville Mobilizes Community Support Amid Tropical Storm Helene Response

Asheville Proactively Responds to Tropical Storm Helene with Community Support

Asheville, North Carolina is stepping up in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, ensuring that residents have access to essential supplies and services. The city has launched a comprehensive response effort to assist those affected by the storm, with various distribution centers and relief initiatives now in place.

Stay Informed with AVL Alert

To keep everyone updated on the latest developments, the city of Asheville encourages residents to sign up for AVL Alert. This notification system will provide critical information during both emergency and non-emergency events. Signing up is simple! Just visit ashevillenc.gov/avlalert to receive alerts directly to your phone or email.

Meal and Relief Distribution Points

The downtown Asheville YMCA has become a lifeline for the community, distributing food and essential items outdoors every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. In addition to food, the YMCA offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations to help everyone stay connected.

Today, October 8, marks the opening of the YMCA of WNC’s Community Healthmobile food market at 12 p.m., again at the Asheville YMCA. Food distributions will continue throughout the week, with additional markets scheduled at the Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler and the Reuter Family YMCA in Biltmore Park.

Additional Support in the Community

If you’re looking for hot showers, Wi-Fi, or a place to unwind, the Y in Marion is open daily from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.. This location is not just a shelter but also acts as a relief distribution site. Meanwhile, the Reuter Y in Biltmore Park welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering similar services plus access to their gymnasium for basketball and playtime. The Woodfin Y is also available for members from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for showers and fitness activities.

Food and Water Distribution Sites

The local Red Cross is hard at work, handing out meals at various Ingles parking lots, starting at 1 p.m. daily through the week. They are offering 500 meals per day at each site:

• Ingles Store #13 – 400 E US Hwy 19, Burnsville, NC
• Ingles Store #180 – 140 Weaver Blvd, Weaverville, NC
• Ingles Store #62 – 575 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville

From now until October 13, Manna Foodbank is distributing food at the WNC Farmers Market, reachable Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. They also welcome donations at their Mills River location from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Non-Potable Water and Fuel Distribution

Residents in Asheville can also access non-potable water at multiple distribution sites, perfect for flushing toilets. Available locations include:

• William W. Estes Elementary
• Sand Hill Elementary
• Pack Square Park

Meanwhile, the Sun Coast Fuel Relief Fund is giving away free gasoline in Black Mountain today from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., limited to 15 gallons per vehicle or gas can. Be sure to visit them at the WNC Shopping Center, Highway 70 in Black Mountain.

Hot Lunches and Continued Support

And it doesn’t stop there! Thanks to the wonderful folks at World Central Kitchen, the Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville will provide 100 free hot lunches each day from 12 noon until 2 p.m. from October 8 to October 12 as long as supplies last.

Repair Assistance Available

If you need a hand with emergency repairs, both the City of Asheville and Buncombe County are waiving associated fees. For more details, visit their respective websites or drop by the Buncombe County Permits office at 30 Valley St..

As Asheville band together during these challenging times, it’s clear that community spirit remains strong. Whether you need assistance or are willing to offer help, everyone is encouraged to reach out and get involved. Stay safe, everyone!