U.S. Cellular’s Generous Donation Brings Hope to Asheville’s Helene Victims
Asheville, N.C. is glowing with gratitude this holiday season, thanks to a _huge donation_ from U.S. Cellular. The telecommunications company is stepping up to support those affected by Hurricane Helene, contributing an impressive $235,000 worth of devices and services to BeLoved Asheville. This initiative is part of their admirable “Gift of Connection” program, aimed at helping communities feel a little less alone during tough times.
Bridging the Gap
According to Amy Cantrell, Co-Director of BeLoved Asheville, this donation is more than just a collection of smartphones and tablets; it’s a _powerful gift_ that reconnects families who were torn apart during the chaos of the hurricane. “One of the things that we first saw with [the] hurricane is that people couldn’t find their loved ones,” she shared. “The power of bringing people back together through these connectivity devices is going to be life-changing for many, many families.”
Imagine being separated from your loved ones during a natural disaster and not being able to contact them. That was the heartbreaking reality for many families during Hurricane Helene. Cantrell emphasized the emotional toll this can take, making the arrival of these new devices all the more vital.
A Trusted Partnership
This marks the third year that BeLoved Asheville has partnered with U.S. Cellular, and their collaboration has only deepened over time. “They are a wonderful organization here in the area,” said Daniel Mabry from U.S. Cellular. “They are helping those affected by the hurricane, and that’s kind of just a continuation of the efforts they put through all year.”
Mabry’s words echo the sentiment that the company sees its role not just as a business but as a _true community partner_ dedicated to supporting local residents in times of need. The donation includes not just smartphones but also tablets and mobile hotspots, ensuring that those impacted can stay connected for the next two years, which is an invaluable resource.
Powering Community Recovery
The ramifications of Hurricane Helene are still being felt across Western North Carolina, with many areas still recovering from the storm. Power outages persist, leaving residents grappling with the aftermath while striving to rebuild their lives. In the face of these challenges, U.S. Cellular’s donation stands out as a beacon of hope.
Local organizations like BeLoved Asheville are working tirelessly to provide the necessary support and resources that families need to regain their footing. This collaboration with a large corporate partner brings vital resources to an under-resourced community, helping to bridge the gap between those in need and the tools they require to recover.
Making a Difference
As Asheville continues to navigate its way through recovery, the impact of U.S. Cellular’s generosity cannot be overlooked. This isn’t just a donation; it is a lifeline. For many families, receiving one of these devices means more than just being able to make a phone call. It means reconnecting with loved ones, sharing updates on recovery efforts, and restoring a sense of normalcy during tumultuous times.
The _gift of connection_ is not just a tagline for U.S. Cellular. It is a commitment that can redefine what it means to come together as a community during hard times. As the holiday season approaches, let’s celebrate the incredible spirit of giving right here in Asheville, where kindness and generosity are paving the way for recovery and reconnection!
