Support Western NC Recovery Post-Hurricane

Dear PENC Community:

We are heartbroken by the devastation caused by the recent hurricane that impacted Western North Carolina and surrounding communities. The damage is significant, and many of our neighbors are facing challenges that will take time and collective effort to overcome.

During this difficult time, we know that emergency relief organizations are on the ground, working tirelessly to help those in need. As a community, we have the opportunity to come together and make a difference.

In this email, you will find information on how you can provide support and aid in the recovery efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering, or sharing resources, every action counts.

Thank you for your care and generosity as we work to help rebuild and support those affected.

At this time, all non-essential personnel are asked to avoid the impacted areas to allow emergency and relief efforts to continue. Volunteer activities are being organized now by the emergency agencies. You can learn more about those opportunities by clicking here.

NCWaterWarn has reached out to PENC to ask for volunteers. NCWaterWarn is focused on supporting water systems in emergency situations. They are actively assessing the needs of Western NC due to the hurricane and have a presence at the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Volunteers may be needed initially to help staff the EOC desk in Raleigh, and potentially assist with damage assessments. PENC is assessing the situation and working to determine where we can support the recovery efforts. Please let Vanessa LaClair (PENC Executive Director) or Brian Johnson (PENC Board President) know if you would be willing help with the staffing the EOC desk.

The North Carolina Chamber has provided the following list of resources that may be helpful to you and your stakeholders in recovery and support efforts.

Moving People, Resources, or Equipment

Until further notice, roads west of Hickory, NC are closed to all non-emergency traffic. If you plan to move resources, equipment, or personnel into Western North Carolina, please coordinate all movement through the NC Emergency Management Business Emergency Operations Center (NCEM-BEOC).

To coordinate, email your logistics or movement requests to BEOC@ncdps.gov with "Logistics Support" in the subject line. Be sure to include:

• What you’re moving and why special access is needed.
• Your timeline for the move, including starting location and destination.
• Estimated arrival time at the Western NC "border" and location.

Small Businesses and Local Chambers

The U.S. Chamber Foundation’s National Disaster Help Desk is available to assist businesses in the affected areas, as well as those seeking to support recovery efforts. You can reach them at 888-MY-BIZ-HELP (888-692-4943), or visit their online resource page for help with employee needs, communication, finances, and recovery organization.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is also offering support, which you can learn more about.

Homeowners and Renters

Residents of 25 counties, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if they suffered uninsured damage or losses from Hurricane Helene.

Public Safety

The N.C. Department of Public Safety has compiled a list of essential resources.

Donating, Volunteering, and More

For those interested in donating or volunteering, the following organizations are actively providing relief and accepting support:

• Relief Organizations
• McDowell Chamber of Commerce Donations
• Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Donations
• Cash donations can be made to the State Disaster Relief Fund through United Way of NC.
• Faith-Based efforts can be made through Samaritan's Purse.