Buncombe County Receives Generous Support from Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in Wake of Hurricane Helene

Buncombe County Welcomes Help from Michigan

As the sun shines down on the beautiful mountains of Buncombe County, the community is coming together in an inspiring show of solidarity and support during a challenging time. People from far and wide continue to step up, and this time, it’s the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office from Flint, Michigan, that has made a significant journey to lend a helping hand.

A Long Journey for a Noble Cause

On Tuesday, December 10, a group of dedicated officers from Genesee County traveled nearly 10-and-a-half hours to deliver much-needed donations to victims of Hurricane Helene. As they arrived in Buncombe County, law enforcement from both sides teamed up to unload a treasure trove of supplies. It was a sight to behold, with box after box being brought into the Sonopress Manufacturing building in Weaverville, making it clear that kindness knows no boundaries.

Gathering Support for Recovery

Thanks to the efforts of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Buncombe County has received hundreds of donations. These generous offerings include toiletries, food, water, toys, clothes, and so much more, all sitting eagerly at the manufacturing site, ready to be distributed to those in need. According to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, this support will first go to deputies who have been affected and then to the wider community during their Special Christmas Community Event.

This heartwarming event is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Monday, December 16, at Sonopress Manufacturing, located at 108 Monticello Road. It promises to be a special occasion where the spirit of giving shines bright.

Inspired by Kindness

The connection between the two counties goes deeper than just this recent support. Donnie Parks, Chief of Staff at the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, shared that the inspiration for this mission stems from the 2016 Flint water crisis, when people nationwide rallied together to send water to Flint. Now, the tables have turned, and it’s Genesee County’s chance to return the favor, helping Asheville during its time of need.

“We needed help, and we gave out that cry for help, and the Genesee Sheriff’s Office responded,” said Parks, his voice filled with gratitude. It’s clear that the officers’ willingness to assist has brought a taste of hope to the Buncombe County community.

A Call to Action

As part of this mission, the Genesee Sheriff’s Office partnered with the nonprofit organization, US United, showing that there’s strength in numbers. Adam Mizel, Co-Founder and CEO of US United, expressed a poignant sentiment: “We looked at what happened here three months ago in Asheville and Buncombe County and said, ‘You know what a lot of people have moved on.’ We don’t think people here have been able to move on; how can we help?”

Now that the donations have arrived, it’s a proud moment for everyone involved. Mizel noted that the motto of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office—to protect, to serve, and to unify—is precisely what they are doing through this initiative. The emphasis on community, especially during tough times, rings true in every heart.

A Personal Touch

One of the volunteers who made the trip, Shawn Sordyl from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, was among the first to raise his hand when asked for volunteers. “We do the job; a lot of the time, it’s a thankless job,” Sordyl remarked. “But when we’re able to give back to other agencies and the community, it hits home.”

An uplifting message echoed by Captain Angie Tullis of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, who emphasized how special it is to receive support from across the nation. “I think it gives everyone here that hope that we need; they’re letting us know that they’re still thinking of us.”

Conclusion

As the people of Buncombe County prepare for the upcoming Christmas Community Event, it’s evident that the bonds created during this challenging time are paving the way for a brighter future. Support from places as far away as Flint, Michigan, showcases the power of unity and kindness. Together, they’re turning struggles into strength, one act of generosity at a time.