We are now two weeks removed from the destructive passage of Hurricane Helene through western North Carolina. In that time, we have heard from many of our concerned High Rocks people and wanted to take a moment to provide an update from the mountain.
Here at camp, we were very fortunate in the damage sustained and, most importantly, that all of our staff members and families were unharmed. The tremendous amount of rain (upwards of 24 inches!) and sustained high winds inevitably impacted the facility. There was a landslide along the road into camp which prevented any vehicle passage in or out. Some trees went down in main camp with many more to be found along the trails. Only two buildings, Lakeside and Connestee, took glancing blows to roof corners. Lots of honest outdoor work to do, and we feel incredibly lucky when looking at many places in our region. We’re happy to share that our camp road is now open, thanks to the support of Cantrell Construction, a local Brevard business. As we write this, the sound of chainsaws fills the air as our Maintenance Team works diligently to clear trees and debris around camp.
A hallmark of our area’s experience has been a community coming together to support one another in a time of great need. It has been sustaining to hear the many different ways people have found to help. Folks from High Rocks have been busy contributing time and goods in efforts to feed nearby communities, supply neighbors cut off from road access, and clothe people who lost everything as the weather turns cooler. It can feel rather insignificant at times when the need around us is so huge.
Pictured is Don, Zoob, and Summer Staff Member, John Phillips, volunteering at our local Boys & Girls Club who handed out over 2,000 dinners over the past three days.
If you are considering ways to help, may we recommend the following efforts focused on our community or our broader region:
Transylvania County:
Sharing House: A local organization providing emergency financial assistance, supplies, and more to residents of Transylvania County.
The Cindy Platt Boys and Girls Club: providing meals and supplies to children and families.
Region:
The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina: Has activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund and waived administration fees to ensure every dollar goes to assistance.
Beloved Asheville: On the ground volunteers collecting and distributing supplies.
Manna Food Bank: Headquarters was damaged due to flood, but they are still distributing food daily
Haywood Christian Ministry: WNC’s largest food pantry based in the Waynesville Area
Looking ahead, we know that Hurricane Helene has left a lasting impact on Western North Carolina. Nevertheless, we believe it’s important to gently restore a sense of normalcy and continue moving forward together. Zoob is currently working on a Fall Travel Schedule where Don and Woody will visit cities to see current campers, meet interested families, and grow the excitement for 2025!
Keep an eye out for the travel schedule, which will be released in the coming weeks. Additionally, registration for our Labor Day Weekend Family Camp will open for returning attendee families on October 17th, with registration for everyone else starting on October 24th.
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