Asheville: A Community Comes Together Amidst Challenges
Asheville, North Carolina, is buzzing with holiday cheer and community spirit, even in the face of significant challenges following Tropical Storm Helene. Many families in the region are still trying to recover from the storm’s devastating impacts, leaving their holiday season quite different than they had hoped. But, as always, the good folks of the mountains are pulling together to make sure no child goes without a little holiday magic.
Supporting Local Businesses and Artists
Just last week, a delightful shopping guide was shared, highlighting some unique Western North Carolina businesses for the holiday season. If you’re in the market for presents that support both the local economy and your loved ones, this guide might be your new best friend. After all, who wouldn’t want to stuff the stockings with beautiful, locally made gifts?
And if you’re looking for something particularly special, mark your calendars for the upcoming Potters Market on December 14 in Charlotte. Held at the Park Expo and Conference Center, this market will showcase handcrafted pottery from more than 30 talented artists from the region. It’s the perfect place to grab a unique gift while also supporting local artisans who have felt the impact of the storm.
Giving Back This Holiday Season
While shopping is great, many families are still in need of support due to the harsh reality of their situations post-storm. Hundreds of children who lost their homes and belongings are facing a Christmas without presents, but there are fantastic initiatives in place to help.
One such initiative is the collaborative effort between country music stars Mark Herndon and Leah Seawright with Unclaimed Baggage. Their “Forgotten to Fulfilled: A Holiday Hope Project” aims to fill 1,000 stockings for affected families in North Carolina. Donations are welcome through December 14, so there’s still time to spread some holiday cheer!
In Asheville, the city’s school district is also running the annual “Holiday Dream Project”, which provides holiday gifts for students facing challenges. Interested community members can email to receive wish lists from students or even check out Amazon wish lists for easy online shopping.
More Ways to Help
For those interested in making a difference, local organizations are rallying to ensure every child has something special this holiday season. Through the Angel Tree program facilitated by the N.C. Cooperative Extension and the Saint Nicholas Project from Eblen Charities, generous gifts of toys and clothing are being gathered to support thousands of families. Or, if you want to personally adopt a child through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, that’s another way to share the love this festive season.
A Community Still in Need
While the spirit of giving is alive and well, Asheville is also facing significant recovery challenges. FEMA reports that over 1,000 residents are using hotels for temporary housing, and many families are living in makeshift shelters like yurts and tents as they wait for assistance. This has become even more urgent with dropping temperatures, as volunteers work tirelessly to provide stable and safe shelter.
Sadly, the unemployment rate has increased in Buncombe County, soaring to 8.8% following the storms. Businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, have faced huge losses, and while assistance is stabilizing, a housing shortage is making recovery sluggish. It’s a tough road ahead, but the resilience of this community shines bright.
Getting Involved
As we all gear up for the holidays, let’s remember the importance of community support. Many organizations are still accepting donations for food, clothing, and holiday gifts. If you’re considering giving back this year, it’s worth checking out local initiatives designed to provide aid and assistance.
This holiday season in Asheville is a poignant reminder of caring for one another. While many are still picking up the pieces, the acts of kindness and generosity will undoubtedly help to lift the spirits of those affected. So, whether you’re shopping local or donating to such worthy causes, every little bit helps. And that’s what the holiday spirit is all about!
