In the ongoing recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, stories of resilience are emerging from the hardest-hit communities.
Many residents are still dealing with power outages, a lack of clean water, and extensive damage. Brendan McPeak, an Asheville resident for nearly a decade, has been doing everything he can to support his neighbors.
"It’s been 15 days, and most of us don’t have power, most of us don’t have water. We are not going to have water for weeks still, they say. But we are getting by," McPeak shared. In his neighborhood, residents have been cooking together and providing meals for those who are going out, "dealing with toxic mud and looking for loved ones." He added, "It’s hard, but as a community, we are really coming together."
It’s not just local residents stepping up. Volunteers from across the region have risked their own safety to save others. Swift water rescue teams have been navigating dangerous conditions to reach those in need.
"There’s amazing, amazing volunteers that have been going out there, swift water rescue, going in and risking their own lives to save others," McPeak said. "There are so many stories of heroic acts and deeds being done that I try to remember those above all the heartbreak. But I have direct friends who have lost their entire house."
Even as the recovery continues, McPeak emphasizes that the need for help is still great. He encourages people who love Asheville to support local businesses and vacation spots that have been affected by the storm.
"There are so many amazing small business owners here that are refusing to quit, refusing to give up," McPeak said. "If you have any specific food truck or restaurant or bar, support those owners, please. A little bit goes a long way right now."
Asheville’s road to recovery is long, but the community’s resilience and spirit of togetherness remain strong.
For more information on how you can assist efforts in the Asheville area, visit here.