US lawmakers announced on January 7 that over $1.5 billion has been allocated to Western North Carolina WNC to aid in the recovery from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene.
The funds are primarily aimed at long-term rebuilding efforts, including restoring homes, supporting small businesses, and repairing damaged infrastructure like roads.
As recovery efforts continue, Natasha Rodriguez, operations director of Operation Helo, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, Western North Carolina is not okay. They are not rebuilt. It is not back to even 5% of where it needs to be.
In response to the crisis, Operation Helo has been delivering essential resources, such as campers to provide warmth to residents in the frigid mountain areas.
The charity has already deployed 200 campers across towns like Hendersonville, Bakersville, Waynesville, Marion, Burnsville, and Fairview.
Governor Josh Stein also took action, signing an executive order aimed at simplifying efforts to deliver heat to the region.
Rodriguez further appealed for continued support, urging people to not forget the mountain communities. They need help. They need people to step up, she said.