Asheville Takes Action: Temporary Tiny Homes for Helene Victims
Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with excitement and compassion as the community comes together to assist those affected by the recent natural disaster, Helene. This Friday, December 20th, NASCAR will hit the road and deliver 17 absolutely stunning tiny homes, all constructed with love right in Charlotte. This initiative is not just about providing shelter; it’s about spreading hope and compassion to those who’ve been displaced from their homes.
Building Hope with Tiny Homes
The task began on December 12, when a dedicated group of skilled laborers teamed up with Lowe’s and other local construction professionals to build temporary homes that meet state codes. The first nine homes were delivered on Thursday, with a beautiful promise of comfort and security just in time for the holidays. The effort is part of a whopping $12 million recovery initiative that aims to bring some stability back into the lives of families who have suffered immense loss.
“When we saw the devastation left in the wake of Helene, we knew we had to do something,” said local builder Danny Kelly. With a crew of around 400 skilled laborers donating their time, the community has truly rallied in a heartfelt display of unity and resilience.
Countless Contributions
Kelly and his team devised a clever plan to bring construction to the families in need. “It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors,” he explained. Lowe’s and other organizations brought their resources and support, ensuring that this well-oiled machine of hope keeps rolling forward. In addition to the first 17 homes, 50 more tiny homes from Incredible Tiny Homes will also be arriving soon, bringing the total to 67 homes ready for distribution across the region.
Where Will the Homes Go?
The tiny homes are destined for various communities, including Waynesville, Saluda, Bat Cave, and beyond, including a significant number heading for Avery County. As Amy Cantrell, co-director of BeLoved Asheville, pointed out, this is just the beginning, as there are still over 100 families desperately seeking stable housing.
“Many people feel forgotten during this tough time,” Cantrell expressed. Almost three months after the disaster, more than 5,000 people are still in hotels while others remain in substandard and damaged homes. The goal of this initiative is not just to provide temporary shelter but to help families stay on their own land so they can rebuild life with a degree of normalcy for their children.
A Community Effort
This isn’t just about the homes—it’s about the great folks involved. Local businesses, craftsmen, and community organizations have come together to make this happen. From Waterworks Plumbing to Habitat for Humanity, everyone is doing their part to lighten the load for families in need. On top of it all, NASCAR’s involvement turns this practical effort into a heartwarming narrative of community support powered by love.
Many builders have expressed a desire to expand this initiative. “With each home we build, we’re not just repairing roofs; we’re nourishing hope,” said Jen Schuster, representing the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte.
Next Steps
Once the families that need these homes can finally return to their repaired residences, the tiny homes will be returned, cleaned, and redeployed for new families in need. It symbolizes resilience and the cycle of giving and receiving within our close-knit communities.
This is a moment for inspiration! Local residents and organizations are encouraged to join this initiative or start their own efforts. After all, helping one another is what being part of a community is about, isn’t it? If you or someone you know is in need, BeLoved Asheville is here to help.
The journey to recovery may be long and challenging, but with a community like Asheville, filled with passionate and loving hearts, it is a journey that can be traveled together. Together, we can ensure that everyone finds a place to call home this holiday season.
