Thanksgiving Meal Distribution and Voting Updates in Buncombe County

Celebrating Thanksgiving in Swannanoa and Important Voting Updates for Buncombe County

This week in Swannanoa, there’s exciting news for those looking to lend a helping hand during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday! Hearts with Hands is gearing up to host a wonderful Thanksgiving meal and supply distribution event on November 27 from noon to 4 p.m. This will be a drive-thru event located at the Hearts with Hands Warehouse, which can be found at 850 Warren Wilson Road.

For anyone interested in taking part, it’s important to register by visiting heartswithhands.org or by calling 828-667-1912 by Monday, November 25 at noon. It’s a fantastic opportunity for those who might need a little extra support during Thanksgiving to get a delicious meal and essential supplies. So, if you know someone who could use this service or even if you would like to volunteer, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Hearts with Hands!

Stay Informed: Absentee Voting Updates

In other news, Buncombe County is ablaze with election spirit as absentee by mail voting is currently underway! The County has already accepted more than 6,000 ballots and has over 1,000 additional ballots set for processing at a meeting this Friday. Early voting is also in full swing, and the turnout has been impressive, with more than 94,000 voters making their voices heard. That’s nearly half of all registered voters in the area!

Corinne Duncan, the Buncombe County Director of Elections, shared, “We have long lines in Buncombe, but in fact, there are long lines all across the state. North Carolina is turning out.” If you haven’t cast your vote yet, there’s still time! Mark your calendars, as you can return your absentee ballot or vote early through Saturday. Don’t forget that Election Day is on Tuesday, November 5.

Important Voting Deadlines

Note that the deadline to request absentee ballots has already passed. However, make sure to return those ballots by Election Day at 7:30 p.m. You can do this by mailing them, dropping them off at any early voting location, or bringing them directly to the Elections Office at 59 Woodfin Place, Asheville. Good news—if you’re unable to do it yourself, a close family member is allowed to submit your ballot for you!

Early Voting Information

If you’re planning on voting early, you’ve got some choices! Early voting hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and keep in mind that by law, all early voting must cease by 3 p.m. on Saturday. If you find yourself in line at that time, don’t worry—poll workers will ensure you get to cast your vote.

There are ten early voting locations available throughout Buncombe County. These include:

• **Black Mountain Library** – 105 N. Dougherty St., Black Mountain
• **East Asheville Library** – 3 Avon Road, Asheville
• **Enka-Candler Library** – 1404 Sand Hill Road, Candler
• **Fairview Library** – 1 Taylor Road, Fairview
• **Leicester Community Center** – 2979 New Leicester Hwy., Leicester
• **South Buncombe Library** – 260 Overlook Road, Asheville
• **UNCA Health & Counseling Center** – 118 W.T Weaver Blvd., Asheville (new location)
• **Weaverville Community Center** – 60 Lakeshore Drive, Weaverville
• **Dr. Wesley Grant Southside Center** – 285 Livingston St., Asheville
• **West Asheville Library** – 942 Haywood Road, Asheville

When heading out to vote, remember to bring your photo ID! If you don’t have one, you can get a free ID by stopping at the office. Additionally, if you need to register same-day during early voting, don’t forget to bring proof of residency along with your ID.

Election Day: What to Expect

On Election Day, polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. If you choose this option, be sure to head to your designated voting location. Remember, as long as you’re in line by 7:30 p.m., you’ll still be able to cast your vote. If you’re unsure where your voting location is, call (828) 250-4200 or check your voter card for details.

It’s important to note that due to recent storm damage or emergency operations, some voting locations have changed, so please keep an eye on notifications or the County’s website for updated information. After the polls close, preliminary election results will start rolling out at 7:30 p.m., beginning with absentee results and followed by early voting updates.

This week brings exciting opportunities for community service and civic engagement, so participate, support your neighbors, and make your voices heard during this significant time!