Community Rallies Together in Asheville After Hurricane Helene
Asheville, N.C. has been gradually recovering from the effects of Hurricane Helene, which left its mark on parts of Western North Carolina several weeks ago. While many have already moved on, there’s still a lot of cleanup happening, and countless stories of resilience are emerging. One such story is that of the non-profit organization, Camino, which has made it their mission to support the local Hispanic community during this challenging time.
Bridging the Gap
In the aftermath of the storm, the community quickly realized that certain groups were being overlooked, particularly the Hispanic population. This was where Camino stepped in, led by their Director of Community Engagement, Steve Sellers. He noted that, “a lot of times because of language barriers or due to citizenship status, this population gets overlooked.” With a compassionate approach, Camino aims to be “the hands and feet of Christ,” welcoming everyone with open arms, regardless of their background.
Community Connection
To better serve the needs of the Hispanic families in Western North Carolina, Camino has been actively partnering with around 130 Hispanic Pastors. This collaboration aims to ensure that no one is left behind during this tough recovery phase. Sellers explained, “Our research shows that when the Latino family has issues that they need to address, they often look toward their family or faith leaders for support, rather than traditional institutions. So, we want to change that narrative.”
Making a Difference
Since the hurricane, Camino has already made three trips to storm-affected areas, bringing tangible help with them. They have delivered nearly 2,300 pounds of food and almost 2,200 pounds of clothing to those in need, spending an impressive $40,000 in total on supporting the Hispanic communities. Uniting volunteers has been crucial as they’ve collectively dedicated around 500 hours to going door-to-door, having meaningful discussions about the community’s needs.
Identifying Needs
During these visits, volunteers have been asking important questions, such as, “What are your medical needs? What about financial or employment needs? And what are your hygiene needs?” This approach allows the organization to gather necessary information and provide tailored support.
A Lifeline for Health Services
One of the most impactful services provided by Camino is the Camino Mobile Health Center. The center has been a beacon of hope for many residents, particularly for individuals like Exar Osmen Aguila, who revealed he hadn’t seen a doctor in about thirteen years. He expressed his gratitude for the free checkups that Camino offers. The center not only conducts examinations but also connects patients with doctors through telehealth services, ensuring that ongoing support is available even after they leave.
Looking Forward
Camino has assured the community that their work isn’t finished. The organization is committed to continually showing up for the Hispanic community in Western North Carolina, not just in times of crisis but throughout the year. Excitingly, they are now making plans to extend their outreach efforts during the Christmas season, aiming to bring joy and hope during the festive period.
As we navigate the recovery from Hurricane Helene, the stories of compassion and community resilience continue to unfold in Asheville. Thanks to efforts like those of Camino, we are reminded of the power of togetherness, support, and the human spirit.
