The United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County is directing $800,000 to local organizations to aid in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts in Buncombe County. The funding aims to address both immediate needs and long-term rebuilding projects for affected communities.
Funding Allocation
Nine local organizations will receive funding. Swannanoa Communities Together, PODER Emma, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort), and Fuller Center Disaster Rebuilders will each receive $100,000. Valley Hope Foundation and Hearts with Hands will each receive $90,000. Emerge Ministries will receive $75,000, and All Hands and Hearts will receive $45,000.
The funds are designated for Helene recovery work, with a priority on helping residents remain in their communities during the rebuilding process. Key areas of focus include home repair and rebuilding, debris removal, private road and driveway repair, and rental and housing assistance.
The United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County said it used data from disaster case management systems, NC 211 call data, the Buncombe County Long-Term Recovery Group, and internal urgent needs requests to identify gaps and unmet needs. These data sources helped determine where resources were most needed for housing stability, infrastructure access, and debris cleanup.
Broader Context
This $800,000 allocation is part of a larger effort. The United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County reports it has distributed more than $5.3 million for Hurricane Helene storm recovery in Buncombe County. The organization has raised almost $8 million for Helene relief and recovery and anticipates an 8–10 year recovery period for the county.
The United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County serves as the fiscal sponsor and backbone agency for the Buncombe County Long-Term Recovery Group, helping coordinate grants, partners, and strategy for Helene recovery county-wide.
The current phase of funding is intended to provide stability and restore habitability and access while longer-term rebuild projects are underway. According to the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, this investment is about “providing stability and hope, ensuring no one has to walk this long road alone.”