What a very tragic week here in Western North Carolina, and especially in my little community of Mills River. Hurricane Helene has altered the landscape, and caused incredible hardship – but it has not jaded the spirit of our community.
I ventured out today and grabbed a few snapshots to give a state of the community here in Mills River. There were hundreds, no thousands, of trees littering the roads, and chain saw crews have been out clearing roadways and making it safe for residents – and for line workers to get to work. Those line crews are working hard to restore much needed power – and doing so just outside my subdivision. Prayers to those working tirelessly to restore that power.
Meanwhile, at Rugby Middle School, the staff of Rugby, Rugby families. Pardee Health Sports Athletic Trainers, the Henderson County Public School System Central Office, and other Henderson County Government Workers all have been manning a disaster relief center to lend a helping hand for residents who are running short of supplies. Dare County’s Sheriff Deputies were onsite as well lending a hand! In addition to MRE meals, they are giving away bottled water, fresh fruit, toiletry items, pet food, and many other things that have been donated by area residents, businesses, and have been brought in from caring people across the region. The volunteers cheerfully load the cars with whatever you need and welcome you back tomorrow. So far this week they have served thousands of area residents – offering a little love and nourishment for our community. Thank you so much!
And a shout out to Cason Builders Supply from East Flat Rock who helped bring in supplies to Rugby Middle today. Thanks so much. There are so many ways to help, and your trucks and forklifts were exactly what was needed to help service this community.
Stay safe, everyone. Together we will get through this tragedy.
Pat
