HURRICANE HELENE DISASTER RELIEF UPDATE | OCTOBER 7, 2024
Recently, we have all been reminded in heartbreaking ways that all creation groans, awaiting the full redemption that Jesus will bring (Romans 8). We have seen pictures of devastation of beloved places, we have anxiously awaited calls from our friends and family who live in Helene’s path of destruction, and we all want to know how we can help in addition to prayer.
The needs are many and will last for years. Below are some strategic ways that our congregation can step into the gap:
Black Mountain Presbyterian | An elder from Black Mountain Presbyterian (BMP) has suggested we send cards to children (especially from other kids!) and notes to volunteers who have been faithfully helping their community. BMP has enough supplies to give out to the community for now, but would love to know that we stand in solidarity and prayer with them. Cards may be dropped off at First Pres.*
Mission Hospital NICU, Asheville | Chris Waters’ mom is a NICU nurse at Mission Hospital. Chris and Allysen are collecting diapers (all sizes), wipes, and premade formula in small bottles for her to take back to Mission Hospital. Any excess will be given to Samaritan’s Purse and other local agencies. You may drop off donations at First Pres* or e-mail Allysen Waters.
Black Mountain Children’s Home | Ed Brenegar serves on the board. All the children are safe, but the home sustained significant damage. If you would like to contribute funds or donate needed goods, please e-mail Ed Brenegar. He will be receiving weekly updates from the home.
Westwood Elementary School | Sara Gray Horne works with the administrators and teachers at this school in the Ashe County. Teachers have shared concerns that children no longer have coats for the fall/winter months ahead, nor blankets for home. You may drop off donations at First Presbyterian Church.*
Montreat Conference Center | For many of us, Montreat is a “thin place,” a place in which God’s presence has been readily evident. Montreat – the Conference Center, College, and town – have sustained significant damage and they have started a fund for rebuilding. For more information and to give, visit Montreat Conference Center.
Samaritan’s Purse | Samaritan's Purse is a non-profit organization equipped to respond immediately to disasters in the United States and around the world. They have set up five centers around the southeast to begin meeting humanitarian need, two of which are in North Carolina. To make a donation or to learn about opportunities to serve, visit Samaritan's Purse.
FPC Disaster Relief Fund | Our denomination, ECO, partners with World Renew when it comes to long-term recovery from disaster. If you would like to contribute to long-term funding, you may give directly to FPC and we will send World Renew these funds together. Any amount you give is tax-deductible. You may use this link to give: FPC Disaster Relief or write a check to FPC and note “Disaster Relief.”
*Donation boxes and card collection baskets are set up in Sanctuary narthex, Worship Center lobby, and B-100.
We are also thinking through long-term help. We will explore sending work teams, as they are needed, into 2025 to help aide the relief work that is already underway. If you know of other personal ways to help, please contact Amy Carlan.