10/04/2024
10/3 6:30pm update: I wish I could record everything I've seen, heard, and experienced since Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina last week.
It is complete devastation up here. Thankfully, we heard tonight that all elementary children have been found and safe. But they are still recovering people
Feeding Avery Families has been operating daily since Sunday, September 29. We are working with the Avery County government and federal emergency crews to supply food to everyone, even the most remote areas.
I've never thought disaster relief would be part of my resume, but here we are. Thank you to those who have donated. Thank you to our AMAZING volunteers, both returning and new ones. Thank you for your prayers. I am so grateful for this community.
We still need your help. Right now, we are trying to distribute food to every house in Avery County (population of 16,000 people) so each home can become a food hub for neighbors in the coming weeks. Many people can't afford or find the gas to drive into town for more supplies.
Here is our current supply list:
Flour
Sugar
Eggs
Cornmeal
Butter
Salt/pepper
Laundry detergent
Dry shampoo
Disinfectant wipes
Wipes
Cat litter
Dairy products (milk, cheese, etc.)
Deli meat
Bagged fresh produce
Sliced bread
Peanut butter and jelly
If you are bringing more than a car load of donations, please contact us so we know. You can text Sally Loftis (704-619-0575) or Vanessa Phillips (423-957-6202). We are accepting donations on Friday, October 4, from 10am-4pm. Bringing people with you to unload supplies is SUPER helpful.
We need volunteers on Friday, October 4, from 10am-4pm. Spanish-speakers are needed for translation, too. Volunteers are needed to also deliver food & supplies to certain roads, going house to house (teams of two or more).
I don't know if we will accept donations or distribute food this weekend because we (staff and volunteers) have been working non-stop and we all need a break to rest and recover. We will let you know as soon as possible.
Thank you, thank you, thank you. We are honored to bring Dick's vision to life every day.
Sally
