As temperatures drop, efforts to prepare homes affected by Hurricane Helene for the harsh winter months are underway in Western North Carolina. Three local nonprofits are set to receive over half a million dollars to aid in this crucial work, ensuring families are not left in the cold.
A total of $550,000 has been allocated by the N.C. General Assembly to assist Rebuild Haywood, the Western North Carolina Conference of United Methodist Churches, and The Beacon Network in their ongoing recovery efforts. These funds will support projects such as installing insulation, sealing windows, and fixing roofs damaged by the hurricane.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “As families continue to recover from Hurricane Helene, winter weather can bring additional hardships. Local organizations have gone above and beyond for their communities in the wake of the storm, completing crucial work like this quickly and efficiently. We’re proud to support these organizations as they work to keep families warm this winter.”
Many residents initially found temporary shelter in trailers and tents, which lacked adequate heating and insulation during the cold winter months. Even now, over a year later, a significant number are still residing in temporary housing or in homes that remain in disrepair.
Matt Calabria, Director of the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina, highlighted the urgency of the situation: “Western North Carolina is already experiencing winter weather, and home winterization is an urgent need for so many residents impacted by Helene. However, winterization can be expensive, and many families are already struggling to make ends meet.”
The largest portion of the funds will go to Rebuild Haywood and the Western North Carolina Conference of United Methodist Churches. Rebuild Haywood, according to their Facebook page, is dedicated to long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts. Meanwhile, The Beacon Network, led by Jared Dubin, will receive $25,000 specifically for repairs and insulation of mobile homes. Dubin indicated that approximately 80 people have sought assistance from the nonprofit.
Dubin explained the necessity of the work, stating, “Those are kind of structures really aren’t meant to be lived in in the winter time, so that’s why we’re taking this extra step.” With the state funding, Dubin anticipates preparing about 25 campers for the cold season, with repair costs ranging from $800 to $1200 per unit.
Calabria praised the role of nonprofit organizations in disaster recovery efforts, noting their ability to operate with fewer restrictions than government bodies. “Volunteer organizations not only are cost effective, and can pull from volunteers and philanthropic resources, but they also can move very nimbly,” he said. The primary objective, Calabria stressed, is to ensure that the work gets done and that the needs of the people are met.
