A New Beginning: The Power of Community in the Face of Disaster
In the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, a powerful initiative has emerged amid the ruins left by recent natural disasters. While it may not resemble the classic holiday imagery of sleighs and reindeer, the arrival of NASCAR’s red pickups has become a symbol of hope and a "new beginning" for many survivors of the recent storms.
The Urgent Need for Housing
For countless families affected by the destructive forces of nature, housing tops the list of immediate needs. The aftermath of destruction has left many survivors wishing for shelter, stability, and a sense of normalcy. Recognizing this urgent necessity, the community has rallied together to provide support where it is most needed.
One week prior to the notable efforts that began last Thursday, participants gathered in Charlotte to lay the groundwork for this significant project. Spearheaded by the Homebuilders Association of Greater Charlotte, volunteers quickly mobilized. Reflecting on her own experiences, Chisa Brooks, the CEO of Brooks Construction, expressed the importance of community involvement, recalling personal memories of loss from Hurricane Hugo decades ago.
Despite initial doubts about getting volunteers to join, the overwhelming response shocked organizers: within just a week, over 400 volunteers had signed up to assist. Home improvement giant Lowe’s stepped forward, offering supplies, while local builders brought their expertise to the forefront. Together, they constructed 17 temporary tiny homes designed to meet state codes, all completed within the span of just seven days.
Despite initial doubts about getting volunteers to join, the overwhelming response shocked organizers: within just a week, over 400 volunteers had signed up to assist. Home improvement giant Lowe’s stepped forward, offering supplies, while local builders brought their expertise to the forefront. Together, they constructed 17 temporary tiny homes designed to meet state codes, all completed within the span of just seven days.
In total, 100 tiny homes—some built by local firms and others organized through initiatives like Beloved Asheville—are expected to be deployed to families in urgent need before Christmas. Areas such as Waynesville, Saluda, and Bat Cave will all benefit from this collaborative effort, showcasing the power of local organizations stepping in to assist where larger federal and state aid programs fall short.
Despite FEMA approving $279 million for a significant number of households, many families remain in dire circumstances. As reported, over 5,000 individuals still reside in hotels, around 500 are in rentals, and 74 families are currently living in FEMA travel trailers. Even as federal agencies strive to find permanent solutions, the local community's initiative has delivered immediate support that transcends traditional assistance.
Amy Canant Krell, a key figure in the initiative, emphasized that the essence of their work can be distilled into three simple words: “love and action.” This initiative isn’t merely about providing shelter; it’s also about restoring a sense of belonging and stability in displaced families' lives. As Krell pointed out, keeping families on their original land allows them to rebuild their lives and maintain essential connections, such as school bus routes for children.
The hope is that the success of this project will inspire other builders and organizations to contribute to similar efforts. The blueprints for these tiny homes, along with material lists, will be shared freely, inviting more participants to engage in the rebuilding of lives and communities.
When a family's home has been permanently restored, these temporary units will be returned to the care of Beloved Asheville, cleaned, and prepared for redeployment to another family in need. This cycle not only maximizes resources but also fosters a sense of ongoing community support.
As the holiday season approaches, the initiative embodies not just physical shelter, but a profound statement of compassion and resilience. With the support of neighboring communities and local builders, hope is flourishing in these tough times—proving that together, they can build a brighter future for all.
Part 1/7:
A New Beginning: The Power of Community in the Face of Disaster
In the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina, a powerful initiative has emerged amid the ruins left by recent natural disasters. While it may not resemble the classic holiday imagery of sleighs and reindeer, the arrival of NASCAR’s red pickups has become a symbol of hope and a "new beginning" for many survivors of the recent storms.
The Urgent Need for Housing
For countless families affected by the destructive forces of nature, housing tops the list of immediate needs. The aftermath of destruction has left many survivors wishing for shelter, stability, and a sense of normalcy. Recognizing this urgent necessity, the community has rallied together to provide support where it is most needed.
Part 2/7:
Community Response: Building Hope with Action
One week prior to the notable efforts that began last Thursday, participants gathered in Charlotte to lay the groundwork for this significant project. Spearheaded by the Homebuilders Association of Greater Charlotte, volunteers quickly mobilized. Reflecting on her own experiences, Chisa Brooks, the CEO of Brooks Construction, expressed the importance of community involvement, recalling personal memories of loss from Hurricane Hugo decades ago.
Part 3/7:
Despite initial doubts about getting volunteers to join, the overwhelming response shocked organizers: within just a week, over 400 volunteers had signed up to assist. Home improvement giant Lowe’s stepped forward, offering supplies, while local builders brought their expertise to the forefront. Together, they constructed 17 temporary tiny homes designed to meet state codes, all completed within the span of just seven days.
A Broader Effort: Collaboration and Commitment
Part 3/7:
Despite initial doubts about getting volunteers to join, the overwhelming response shocked organizers: within just a week, over 400 volunteers had signed up to assist. Home improvement giant Lowe’s stepped forward, offering supplies, while local builders brought their expertise to the forefront. Together, they constructed 17 temporary tiny homes designed to meet state codes, all completed within the span of just seven days.
A Broader Effort: Collaboration and Commitment
Part 4/7:
In total, 100 tiny homes—some built by local firms and others organized through initiatives like Beloved Asheville—are expected to be deployed to families in urgent need before Christmas. Areas such as Waynesville, Saluda, and Bat Cave will all benefit from this collaborative effort, showcasing the power of local organizations stepping in to assist where larger federal and state aid programs fall short.
Part 5/7:
Despite FEMA approving $279 million for a significant number of households, many families remain in dire circumstances. As reported, over 5,000 individuals still reside in hotels, around 500 are in rentals, and 74 families are currently living in FEMA travel trailers. Even as federal agencies strive to find permanent solutions, the local community's initiative has delivered immediate support that transcends traditional assistance.
The Spirit of Love and Action
Part 6/7:
Amy Canant Krell, a key figure in the initiative, emphasized that the essence of their work can be distilled into three simple words: “love and action.” This initiative isn’t merely about providing shelter; it’s also about restoring a sense of belonging and stability in displaced families' lives. As Krell pointed out, keeping families on their original land allows them to rebuild their lives and maintain essential connections, such as school bus routes for children.
The hope is that the success of this project will inspire other builders and organizations to contribute to similar efforts. The blueprints for these tiny homes, along with material lists, will be shared freely, inviting more participants to engage in the rebuilding of lives and communities.
A Cycle of Support
Part 7/7:
When a family's home has been permanently restored, these temporary units will be returned to the care of Beloved Asheville, cleaned, and prepared for redeployment to another family in need. This cycle not only maximizes resources but also fosters a sense of ongoing community support.
As the holiday season approaches, the initiative embodies not just physical shelter, but a profound statement of compassion and resilience. With the support of neighboring communities and local builders, hope is flourishing in these tough times—proving that together, they can build a brighter future for all.