Asheville Comes Together in the Wake of Hurricane Helene
Asheville, N.C. has been buzzing with activity lately, but not the kind you usually associate with a thriving city. Instead, the community is working hard to recover and support one another following the damaging effects of Hurricane Helene. Thankfully, in times of need like these, the true spirit of the community shines through, especially at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church.
A Helping Hand from the Church
Located on Kenilworth Road, the church has become a beacon of hope for local families affected by the storm. Volunteers have organized a non-potable water station right at the church’s steps, where families can fill up their containers with much-needed water for flushing toilets. This simple but vital initiative has been a game changer for many. Church members, alongside residents, have been working diligently to keep the station well-stocked as families continue to face challenges in the aftermath.
In addition to the water station, the church has also stepped up to create a makeshift daycare center. This thoughtful service allows parents to get back to work while schools remain closed across the county. One of the dedicated volunteers is Claire Stanhope, a lifelong resident of the Kenilworth neighborhood. As she balances caring for her two young daughters, Claire is determined to provide some semblance of normalcy during this tough time.
Creating Normalcy Amidst Chaos
“We have empty buckets in the corner that need filling with grey water for flushing,” Claire explains while navigating her home, which still holds clutter from the chaos. Her kitchen showcases her creative resilience—there are even water stations set up for cooking and cleaning, ensuring that her family can manage basic daily tasks amid the disruptions.
Feeling lucky that her daughters can experience some routine, Claire can’t help but reflect on the greater struggles faced by others in the region. “My heart breaks for so many families who are really struggling right now. This is where I grew up, and it’s incredibly sad to see my community in distress,” she says with deep empathy.
Community Kindness and Action
Claire, alongside her friends from church, has made it a priority to check in on vulnerable neighbors, especially the elderly. “We’re trying to give back—making sure those who are unable to go out have the support they need, like food and water,” she shares. The sense of community is palpable, and together they are doing everything they can to uplift one another during this trying time.
Wider Outreach in Asheville
Not far from Kenilworth, residents of the Livingston Community are also coming together to support each other. At the Edington Center, a robust food and water collection effort has been established specifically for families in public housing. This collaboration reflects the resilience and strength that the people of Asheville possess, as they navigate these challenging waters together.
Spotlight on Perseverance
In the nearby Erskine housing community, Olympia Garrett, affectionately called “Mama Ji,” has taken it upon herself to ensure her family is safe and cared for. After evacuating after the storm, her daughter and grandchildren have been staying with her. They’ve transformed Mama Ji’s apartment into a tactical setup for water usage—inside she has strategically placed buckets for specific tasks, from cleaning dishes to flushing toilets.
“We used the cooler to catch rainwater,” Mama Ji explains proudly, showcasing her resourcefulness. Her kitchen reflects careful planning, demonstrating just how one family can adapt and carry on despite the odds stacked against them.
A Lesson in Resilience
Her daughter, La Toya Griffith, acknowledges the invaluable life lessons being learned during these tough times. “Staying organized helps keep the situation calm,” she says, demonstrating wisdom that far exceeds her years. As Mama Ji wraps up her grandchildren with affection, it’s clear that a strong family unit can weather any storm, both literally and figuratively.
In a time of need, when waters recede and recovery is top of mind, the people of Asheville have shown that together, they can build back stronger and support one another with kindness and compassion. Every small effort contributes to a significant collective impact, proving once again that in the face of adversity, community spirit can truly shine.
