Disaster Recovery Resources for WNC Communities

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our hearts go out to all of our neighbors in Western North Carolina. This page is dedicated to providing vital information, resources, and assistance for those affected by the storm. Whether you’ve been displaced, experienced property damage, or need assistance navigating the recovery process, the following resources can offer support.

Food & Water Assistance/Volunteering & Donations

1. Hands On Asheville-Buncombe
Find local volunteer opportunities to help rebuild communities across WNC.
Get Involved

2. BeLoved Asheville
A local grassroots organization helping with disaster relief and providing long-term recovery assistance. They are always looking for volunteers and donations to continue their critical work.
Learn More

3. Manna FoodBank Distributing food and supplies to families in need. Partnering with local organizations for immediate food relief. Find Local Food Pantries or call 828-299-3663.

Emergency Assistance

1. American Red Cross - Western North Carolina Chapter
Provides shelter, food, and emergency supplies to those affected.
Find Services or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

2. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
If your area has been declared a disaster zone, you may qualify for federal disaster assistance, including financial support for temporary housing and home repairs.
Apply for Assistance or call 1-800-621-FEMA.

3. North Carolina Emergency Management
Coordinates state-level disaster response and recovery efforts, including local shelters, food banks, and crisis counseling services.
Visit NC Emergency Management or call 1-800-858-0368.

Housing & Relocation Support

1. North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
Provides resources for temporary housing, mortgage assistance, and home repairs for low-income homeowners affected by the hurricane.
Learn More or call 919-877-5700.

2. Local Shelters and Temporary Housing
Several emergency shelters are open across WNC. Visit local Red Cross shelters or call United Way dial 211 for information.

Home Repairs & Debris Removal

1. NC Rebuild & Recovery
State-run program offering assistance for debris removal, rebuilding efforts, and connecting homeowners with contractors.
Visit NC Rebuild

2. Crisis Cleanup Hotline
Provides free home cleanup assistance (mud, debris, fallen trees, etc.) to disaster-affected homeowners.
Call 1-800-451-1954.

3. Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity
Offering low-cost home repairs and assistance to those affected by the hurricane.
Contact Habitat for Humanity or call 828-251-5702.

Mental Health & Counseling Support

1. North Carolina Crisis Hotline
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis call or text 988 or chat at www.988lifeline.org for a trained crisis counselor 24/7. To reach a Spanish-speaking crisis counselors, call or text 988 and press option 2, text "AYUDA" to 988, or chat online at Linea988.org.

Financial Assistance & Insurance Claims

1. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
For individuals who have lost work due to the hurricane, DUA provides temporary unemployment benefits.
Apply for DUA or call 1-888-737-0259.

2. Insurance Claims
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to file claims for flood, home, or property damage. If you're unsure about your coverage, the North Carolina Department of Insurance can assist you with filing claims or disputes.
Visit the NCDOI or call 855-408-1212.

3. SBA Disaster Loan Assistance
The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses, homeowners, and renters to repair or replace damaged property.
Apply for an SBA Loan or call 1-800-659-2955.

We know that recovering from this disaster will take time, but our community is strong.