Hurricane Helene, which made landfall on September 26, has left lasting scars on Western North Carolina, with many communities still grappling with the devastating aftermath nearly three months later. The storm, attributed to catastrophic damage across four states and nearly $60 billion worth of destruction, has sparked significant recovery efforts and community resilience.
Among those committed to chronicling the impact of the hurricane is Caroline Griffith, a 20-year-old film student at New York University. Griffith is producing a short documentary aimed at raising awareness about the destruction left behind by Helene. "I hope the documentary will invoke a sense of urgency..." Griffith stated, emphasizing her goal of shedding light on the challenges faced by those still recovering. Having deep roots to the area, she noted, "Seeing it in real life, it's a different feeling... you really kind of have to see it to believe it," as she observed the extensive damage firsthand.
Griffith's documentary, which will clock in at ten minutes and is expected to be completed in January, aims to capture the essence of resilience within the affected communities. During her visits, she focused on areas like Marshall, where she noted, "They just have a really great attitude about it," highlighting the perseverance against the backdrop of destruction. She conducted interviews with families who expressed heartache over the holiday season yet showcased their determination to rebuild.
Meanwhile, the urgency for recovery led Gainey’s Concrete Products to spring quickly to action. On October 28, the company expedited the production of six precast concrete pieces to restore severely damaged sewer infrastructure in Lake Lure. "It was an environmental necessity for this lift station to be up and running again," remarked CEO Lisa Roache, underscoring the significance of the project not just for infrastructure but for the welfare of the community. Municipalities had faced overwhelming challenges as sewage from two towns found its way to local rivers due to damaged systems, intensifying the need for swift action.
Brian Houston, from LaBelle Associates, shared his appreciation for Gainey’s rapid response and managed to keep urgency at the forefront, stating, "Our experience with Gainey’s was stellar..." His remarks emphasized the cooperation necessary to address such community emergencies.
State officials, including Gov. Roy Cooper, have not only worked on restoration but also spearheaded fundraising efforts. Recently, the North Carolina Community Foundation secured $15.5 million from the state’s disaster relief fund directed at supporting long-term recovery. Donations from all over the country and even countries like Canada and Great Britain have continued to flow, highlighting the community’s appeal for support. Cooper commented, "We are so grateful for this outpouring of generosity toward the people of western North Carolina." Such initiatives already saw over $1 million awarded to more than 100 nonprofits engaged on the frontlines, providing immediate assistance through food, water, and emergency supplies, showing the collaborative effort within and beyond the state.
Despite these large-scale financial contributions, the community spirit shines through as residents come together to celebrate the holidays. One such event, organized by the owners of Iron Horse Station, invited locals to enjoy good food, crafts, and opportunities for parents to shop for gifts, proving not only to be festive but healing. Volunteer Jeff Varner remarked, "It showed us...that they forgot the flood for the day," encapsulating the uplifting atmosphere created during tough times.
While rebuilding is still underway, those involved acknowledge the long road to recovery is just beginning. Gov. Cooper emphasized, "Recovering from Hurricane Helene will be a marathon, and each and every donation helps." Organizations and individuals remain steadfast, ensuring support remains available for all needs.
With over 1,200 roads reopened from the damage inflicted by the hurricane, the North Carolina Department of Transportation is pushing forward with plans for access routes. The department has faced myriad challenges, including recent landslides, which not only hinder progress but pose new safety concerns. division engineer Wanda Payne conveyed, “It’s unfortunate...but we know it is a very important route for folks who live here.”
Community members like Heath Gore have not wavered since the storm's devastation. Being active from the beginning with search and recovery, Gore has dedicated himself to ensuring everyone's needs are met. "This is one of my favorite towns. I have helped a lot of people since I've been here," he reflected, reinforcing the bonded relationships cultivated through adversity.
Rental homes and businesses may be temporarily shuttered, but the spirit of community resilience is stronger than ever, embodied by the actions taken by those who fight for recovery and normalcy. Each Story shared, every documentary produced, and all funds raised contribute to illustrating the continuing narrative of hope amid the recovery phases from Hurricane Helene's harsh realities.
