Helene disaster isn’t over
To the Editor:
I was finally able to get through the travel hazards back to Western North Carolina six days after Helene’s historic fury had torn through our region devastating roadways, major infrastructure, entire communities and thousands of lives.
It was with great relief that I pulled in the driveway to find all safe and the lights on amid the many fallen trees and power lines. I could finally exhale. There was a sense of shock permeating every cove and holler as power was gradually restored and the vivid images began to spread across area screens showing the absolute destruction just east of where we stood.
The next day I received a request to move some relief supplies from the temporary staging area at a local brewery to the newly acquired warehouse space in Sylva and to begin supplying those affected by the storm with basic necessities from donations received from across the region. I have returned to the warehouse nearly every day for over a month to bear witness and help process an outpouring of effort and donations from across the country.
With assistance from relief organizations, the National Guard and dozens of volunteers, the once empty space quickly filled with critical supplies of food, water, clothes, tents, diapers, generators, personal care and first aid items along with much more to be transported to those directly impacted by tragic losses. I have had the great opportunity to work alongside many wonderful volunteers from across the region as well as from Texas, Ohio, Florida and several other parts of our nation. It has been very restorative for me to see Americans from all walks and beliefs working side by side to help others in need during a very divisive period in our shared history.
Much has been accomplished in the past weeks, but much remains to do to help lift up our neighbors, communities and businesses that, in some cases, were completely wiped off the map. There has been a tremendous effort in all of the unloading, sorting, organizing, repacking, staging and distribution of all these donations from sources large and small, all being done by volunteers. I have personally unpacked crates and trucks with personal notes and hand-written prayers from strangers miles away from this state and the devastation.
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We continue to run short of camping stoves, portable heaters, propane cylinders of all sizes, heavy-duty extension cords, household cleaning products and laundry detergent.
We no longer have need for food, clothing and water as our space is limited and we are at capacity, but will gladly accept the items in short supply listed above. Please feel free to drop off these items at the warehouse at 653 Scotts Creek Road in Sylva between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For updates on needed items visit the Facebook page “NC Response to Helene : Sylva NC” or check with your county’s Emergency Management Department for contact info.
We also continue to need help in the warehouse with sorting, packing and distribution of relief supplies during these times. The needs of our neighbors will continue for several months as we heal from the damage and rebuild our battered communities. Your help is needed to get us back on our feet and assist us to again stand WNC Strong.
John Beckman
Cullowhee
