The country has rallied around western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene left disaster-struck mountain towns and cities struggling to get the help and resources they need. As local teams have sprung to action,

As Hurricane Helene ripped through Asheville, the floodwaters created in its wake were swift in their destruction. In addition to the many homes completely destroyed during Helene, dozens of local small businesses were devastated by floodwaters — some will take weeks or months to recover,

The situation is dire. Many North Carolina communities haven’t had fresh water, internet or cell service for multiple days.