Small Businesses in Asheville Face Financial Struggles in Wake of Storm Helene

Small Businesses in Asheville Struggle After Storm Helene

Asheville, N.C. – The devastating impact of Storm Helene continues to be felt deeply across the community, particularly among small business owners who are now grappling with the aftermath. Just weeks after the storm hit, federal funding that many hoped to lean on simply dried up, leaving countless individuals in a state of uncertainty about their financial futures.

Artists Like Raphaella Vaisseau Share Their Struggles

One such artist, Raphaella Vaisseau, has devoted 27 years to supporting herself through her art. However, the flood that overwhelmed her 600-foot gallery in the River Arts District washed away not only her paintings but also the very foundation of her livelihood. “To have my income suddenly be gone in 24 hours was the most devastating,” Vaisseau expressed. She estimates her losses at an astounding $200,000, including both inventory and essential equipment.

Despite her relentless efforts to secure financial help, Vaisseau has met roadblocks at every turn. “I’ve applied for every grant I could. I’ve not received any,” she shared, her disappointment evident. Although she did manage to receive a few hundred dollars from the River Art District Fund and has set up a GoFundMe page, the support has not been enough. She remains hopeful, expressing gratitude for a small space where she can continue showcasing her work.

A Community in Need of Support

Vaisseau isn’t alone in her struggle. The small business community in Asheville is rallying together, but the weight of the situation is heavy. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) typically provides pivotal financial support after natural disasters, but as of mid-October, those funds had run dry. Brian Frydenborg, a spokesperson for the SBA in Asheville, emphasized the importance of keeping applications for assistance coming, in hopes that more funds will become available soon.

It’s notable that more than 10,000 applications for help following Helene were submitted in North Carolina since the disaster, yet only 137 of those received any funding. The total amount disbursed so far tallies to about $7.48 million, but despite the efforts, this isn’t enough to cover the vast needs of local businesses.

Local Efforts: A Light in the Dark

Vic Isley from Explore Asheville highlighted that around 300 small businesses benefitted from the Always Asheville fund, which contributed a total of $1.1 million. “It’s about 70 to 80 percent through the funds that is out our door and into business owners’ hands,” Isley noted while acknowledging that the need continues to grow.

Remarkably, about 70% of local businesses have reopened, yet many still struggle to regain their footing. Isley urges residents and visitors to support local shops, especially during the holiday season, to help sustain jobs and foster a revival in the spring.

Collaborative Efforts to Rebuild a Community

The City of Asheville, in collaboration with Mountain Bizworks, has also allocated $1.3 million in aid, but the demand greatly exceeds what has been made available. Over 600 businesses applied for assistance, with requests exceeding $13 million, highlighting the extent of the recovery needed.

As lawmakers propose emergency aid exceeding $100 billion, uncertainty looms over the approval of this aid. Local leaders like James Shelton stress that rebuilding efforts require collective action from various organizations and agencies to truly make a difference.

A Continued Look Ahead

In these challenging times, it’s crucial for the community to pull together. As artists and small business owners like Vaisseau strive to reclaim their futures, the road to recovery is a collective journey that requires shared support, funding, and, most importantly, the understanding that every contribution counts.

As Asheville faces the hurdles of restoration, its spirit remains resilient, as both residents and visitors contribute to a renewed hope for recovery.