The recovery process after Hurricane Helene has been long for western North Carolinians as the storm ravaged several towns, destroying homes and buildings.
Some of the damaged areas in the mountains still lack essential elements of life such as water or gas.
As winter quickly approaches and temperatures drop, thousands of people in two counties are without heat after Helene wiped out gas stations.
Many mountain houses use kerosene oil to heat their homes.
Several non-profit organizations have come together to provide free gas to those who need it by setting up centers in affected areas.
They even offer free home delivery for those who need gas to keep their homes warm.
“I know we’ve currently shipped 57,000 gallons of fuel,” said Rhonda Jean of the Western Carolina Emergency Network.
Volunteers sort through social media messages to find the people who need the most help.
They then move around, releasing the gas for free.
For homes that need kerosene, things are a little more complicated.
Jean said there was only one gas station in the area that provided kerosene.
Dispersed by floods.
Amiyah Keele lost her home and car in the Helene floods.
She said she received help after the storm when a vehicle and a fifth-wheel camper were donated to her.
Temporary gas stations, like the one set up in Yancey County, help families like Keele’s get gas for their generators.
Amy Webb also uses the makeshift gas station for fuel.
“It would be very cold if we didn’t have fuel here,” she said.
“They’re hurting, so by being able to fund those needs, they’re able to buy food or, you know, pay their mortgage,” Jean said.
The Western North Carolina Emergency Network provides disaster relief by collecting supplies and donations to help affected people get what they need, like fuel.
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