Western NC

Hello, all -

A quick note — Boone, NC was where I lived from 2003 through 2019 and then after moving back from 2 1/2 years in Albuquerque, again from 2022-2023. I’m currently in Wilmington, NC, but I still consider Boone and the High Country my home. My heart is there with everyone today. Photos and videos coming out of there are shattering.

I’m sure you are seeing stories of the devastation to Asheville and surrounding counties, Boone and the rural counties there, as well as eastern Tennessee. So many people are in desperate need. Roads have been washed away, bridges are gone, electricity is still out for most. Many are stranded without food and water and no way out of their area, and services have no way in. Small communities are shockingly just gone. The effects of Helene are catastrophic. We’ll be seeing reports of the wreckage and loss of life for weeks, maybe months.

My adult kids are up there now, faring okay as I’ve gotten word. Many still seek information about family and friends, but cellular service is patchy to non-existent.

If you have a mind to help, these places will make good use of your donations:

• Health and Hunger Coalition

• High Country Community Health

• F.A.R.M. Cafe

• Red Cross

• Samaritan’s Purse

• Baptists on a Mission has set up food banks in Boone and Arden and will have other recovery services available in various places throughout the area

• Operation Airdrop is assisting with getting critical supplies to those in need

If you’ve a mind to send your love, prayers, good thoughts, and some bright light into this dark time, I know our collective movements toward uplifting and carrying others can availeth much.

With deepest gratitude,

R.