Charlotte Residents Step Up to Support Hurricane Helene Victims
Charlotte, North Carolina – As the effects of Hurricane Helene continue to be felt across Western North Carolina, the resilience of both individuals and communities shines brightly. With many residents forced to leave their homes due to severe flooding and other damages, the support network in cities like Charlotte is rapidly expanding. Local residents are not only finding temporary housing but are also banding together to help their neighbors back home.
Prepping for the Storm
On September 26, Porter Watson had already begun preparing for the impending hurricane. Living in the quaint mountain town of Woodfin, located just north of Asheville, Porter stocked up on essential supplies like microwavable meals, gas, and ice. Shortly after, the rain began to pour, and things took a turn for the worse. Power outages followed, cell service disappeared, and the river that normally meanders calmly through the area transformed into a roaring beast, dragging debris and massive PVC pipes along its path.
Though Watson’s home thankfully remained intact, he quickly recognized the devastation faced by others in the aftermath. Determined to help, he joined friends to clear out the mud and damage that the floodwaters had left behind. However, the couple soon reached a difficult decision. “The whole idea is to minimize our burden on the search-and-rescue and recovery efforts,” he explained. With that in mind, Porter and his wife, Layson, decided to temporarily relocate to Charlotte, where their home became a welcoming shelter for neighbors in need.
A Growing Need for Shelter
As the damage unfolded, many Western North Carolinians began looking for places to stay—ranging from Hickory to Charlotte and beyond. Many found success with family members, while others scrambled to book hotels and Airbnbs, hoping to dodge inflated prices. Unfortunately, hotel rooms in areas like Charlotte Douglas International Airport became scarce, filling up quickly after September 27.
In Hickory and Conover, the situation was similar. Mandy Pitts Hildebrand, CEO of the Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau, reported that local hotels were fully booked, primarily due to emergency response teams taking up space. West Asheville resident Shane Shields faced a tough battle securing accommodation but eventually managed to find a limited Airbnb in Charlotte’s University area. Like Watson, he felt inspired to leave his home to lessen the burden on local resources.
Connecting Those in Need
To aid displaced residents, local real estate professionals Angela Standish and Josie Nasife launched a Facebook group called WNC Temporary Housing Resources, which has already garnered over 1,200 members. The goal of the group is clear: connect those needing shelter with individuals willing to offer it. “There’s a lot of people that are opening their homes and willing to help,“ Nasife said, noting that their approach is growing organically as word spreads.
The response has been remarkable, with numerous homeowners offering everything from rooms to full houses. As the group expands, they plan to provide both immediate and long-term housing solutions for those affected by the storm.
Emergency Housing Options Available
For those displaced, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated its Transitional Sheltering Assistance program in several counties, covering costs for hotel stays, taxes, and even pet fees. Additionally, Airbnb has stepped up by offering free temporary stays for 10 to 14 days through its nonprofit arm, Airbnb.org. Those in need can contact 211 for access to these listings.
Community Spirit Shines
As efforts continue, many locals have taken it upon themselves to assist in relief missions. Porter Watson is just one of many individuals gathering supplies and making trips back to Asheville with essential items. Where government assistance may have gaps, community members are stepping in to fill them. Watson reported receiving thousands of dollars in donations, funding the purchase of supplies like water and diapers.
Charlotte has become a central hub for grassroots initiatives to assist those still struggling in Western North Carolina. “We’re going to try to be that satellite, that supply source that people need,” Watson stated. The community is committed to supporting each other through this challenging time, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The road to recovery may be long, but the determination and collaboration among North Carolinians offer a glimmer of hope. It’s in moments like these where the true heart of a community shines brightest.
