Support for Asheville’s Small Businesses Grows Amid Hurricane Helene Aftermath

Support for Small Businesses in Asheville

Asheville, N.C. has recently seen a wave of support aimed at local small businesses grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The city, known for its breathtaking mountains and vibrant arts scene, is rallying together through the newly created ‘Always Asheville’ Fund. This initiative stands as a ray of hope for many who find themselves struggling to stay afloat during these challenging times.

Addressing the Needs of Local Businesses

According to Vic Isley, the President and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, research indicates that 40% of small businesses never reopen following a disaster. This alarming statistic has driven the need for a proactive approach to support local establishments in Buncombe County. Isley emphasized, “In some cases, we’re hearing as much as 20 to 30% of the workforce has left our region at this time.” This workforce exodus puts additional strain on the economy and local commerce.

A Personal Struggle

One such voice among the affected is Teresa Hollifield, who recently faced layoffs from a chain retail shop in Marion. She has been granted disaster unemployment assistance, yet her situation is precarious as she shares, “We’re relying on that income right now.” While the ‘Always Asheville’ Fund cannot directly restore her previous job, it aims to bolster the businesses that can create new opportunities.

Reviving Local Economy through Tourism

Tourism plays a pivotal role in Asheville’s economy, with visitors contributing $3 billion in spending to local businesses last year. This substantial influx underscores the importance of sustaining a robust local business environment. Following the impact of Hurricane Helene, which affected tourism and local operations, the focus has shifted to ways in which Asheville can strategically revive its attractions and support mechanisms.

A Proven Strategy

The ‘Always Asheville’ Fund draws inspiration from a successful COVID-19 grant initiative. During that initiative, around 90% of participating businesses reopened and continue to operate four years later. This present fund follows a similar blueprint, providing grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 to front-facing small, independent businesses. Isley noted that the goal is not just to sustain businesses temporarily, but to ensure these cultural cornerstones of Asheville remain open for the long haul.

Beyond Just Financial Help

Visitors to Asheville support a vast array of businesses, from cozy art galleries and lively music venues to unique retail shops, delicious restaurants, and craft breweries. There are also tour outfitters that enhance the overall experience for visitors in the region. “We really want to make sure that they’re here for the long term,” Isley remarked, highlighting that these businesses add irreplaceable character to the community.

Looking Ahead

The journey toward recovery for local businesses in Asheville is a community effort. The ‘Always Asheville’ Fund represents a collaborative spirit aiming to uplift those who have felt the brunt of recent adversities. For individuals and families affected, knowing that there is a support system in place can be incredibly reassuring. In these trying times, regional support is more important than ever to ensure that Asheville’s unique charm and community spirit endure.

Connecting with Resources

For anyone seeking more information on resources available for businesses affected by Hurricane Helene in Asheville and Buncombe County, there are numerous local organizations dedicated to providing assistance and guidance. It’s heartwarming to see communities come together, fostering resilience and paving the pathway to recovery.