Community Comes Together to Provide Transportation for Families Affected by Hurricane Helene

Community United: Working Wheels Helps Families Affected by Hurricane Helene

Asheville, NC – The spirit of community shines bright in Asheville this holiday season as Working Wheels, a local non-profit dedicated to providing affordable and reliable transportation, has made a remarkable impact on families affected by Hurricane Helene. With nearly $400,000 raised, this organization is on track to provide 30 replacement cars to those who lost their vehicles in the devastating flood caused by the storm.

Getting Back on the Road

For many families in the area, the loss of a car can mean more than just an inconvenience. It often translates to lost jobs, missed medical appointments, and a heavy burden on daily life. Jamie Beasley, the executive director of Working Wheels, shared, “The need for replacement cars is completely overwhelming. Estimates are in the thousands of people who lost their car in the flood.” The loss leaves many without the means to get back on their feet, attend work, or transport their children to various activities.

A Helping Hand

Thanks to the generous contributions from community partners like the Community Foundation of WNC, Pisgah Investments Foundation, Inc., and Impact Health, as well as many individual donors, Working Wheels is ensuring that at least 30 individuals will soon have reliable transportation again. The first seven cars are expected to be matched with local families by the end of December, providing hope just in time for the holidays.

Quality Vehicles for Families in Need

To ensure these families receive dependable vehicles, Working Wheels is carefully selecting cars made by Honda and Toyota, typically ranging from 10 to 12 years old and with between 120,000 and 160,000 miles. Each vehicle undergoes a comprehensive assessment, and if needed, pre-sale repairs are completed to ensure safety and reliability before the cars are sold. The organization also handles the DMV processes and offers a 3-month warranty on all vehicles sold through the program. This commitment to quality ensures that families can drive away with confidence.

A Collective Effort

Beasley expresses gratitude for the overwhelming community support. “The beautiful thing about this recovery is that so many people are helping in whatever way they can. This feels like something we can do,” she reflects. This kind of collaborative effort is a testament to the community’s resilience and willingness to help one another in times of need.

How to Get Involved

For those interested in contributing to this noble cause, there are several ways to help. Donations are always welcomed and can make a significant difference in the lives of many families struggling to regain their independence. Additionally, families in need of a replacement car can apply through the Working Wheels organization. The initiative is a wonderful example of how a community can come together, turning support into tangible assistance for those facing challenging times.

Find Out More

If you’re looking for more information on Working Wheels, or if you wish to make a donation or apply for a replacement car, you can visit their site for the latest updates and opportunities to help. Every small effort contributes to a brighter future for those facing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

As we approach the end of the year, let’s remember that kindness has a ripple effect. Together, we can make a world of difference in the lives of our neighbors right here in Asheville.