The Appalachian Mountains, a region steeped in both beauty and history, has long been a defining force in my life. Western North Carolina, where I was born and where most of my family still lives, is not only a landscape of serene valleys and rolling hills, but also a region prone to the destructive forces of nature. Hurricane Helene, which recently ravaged this area, has brought devastation on a scale that feels almost biblical in its proportions.

In just a matter of hours, 35 inches of rain poured down, turning the rugged charm of the Appalachians into a terrifying force of destruction. Entire towns have been lost, bridges swept away, and roads destroyed, leaving many trapped in the region’s remote coves, unable to escape. The lives and homes of so many people have been taken in the storm’s wake, and as the floodwaters recede, the scale of the tragedy becomes even more apparent.

For me, this devastation hits deeply. My family’s roots in Western North Carolina go back generations. I’ve always held a deep connection to this land, where my ancestors lived, worked, and thrived. My relatives, friends, and neighbors are among those affected, and while they face unimaginable loss, the resilience of the people here is not to be underestimated. Even in the face of such disaster, their strength and resolve remain.

But they can’t do it alone. As of now, governmental aid has been slow, and the needs of the community are immense. People are without food, clothing, and basic necessities. Homes have been destroyed, and infrastructure is in ruins. I am organizing a relief effort to get resources directly into the hands of those in need—food, clothing, and other essential supplies. As soon as I can gather enough support and supplies, I will be making the trip up to the region to deliver aid personally.

I’m asking for your help to make this possible. If you feel moved to assist, please consider supporting this mission by contributing to cover my travel expenses through Buy Me A Coffee or Venmo. Every bit of support counts in getting immediate relief to the people who desperately need it. The situation in Western North Carolina is dire, but with your help, we can begin the process of recovery and provide hope to those who have lost so much. Together, we can make a difference.