Asheville Neighbors on Riceville Road

My name is Grace Dunn, and I live in Asheville, North Carolina, just two miles from the Swanannoa River. When Hurricane Helene hit, my family and I were fortunate that our home sustained minimal damage. However, many of our neighbors cannot say the same. It's truly heartbreaking. As I look around my community, I see homes destroyed, families displaced, and lives turned upside down. It’s unreal to witness this devastation so close to home, and that’s why I’m asking for your help. I am collecting funds to assist in the rebuilding efforts for our community, and every contribution, big or small, will make a difference. I am collecting funds to provide urgent support for 9 families in need of basic essentials (clean water, food, gasoline, fuel containers, generators, candles, lighters, flashlights, lanterns, batteries, camping stoves, propane, and clothing). I’m also raising money for the Riceville Volunteer Fire Department , whose tireless efforts during and after the storm have been critical in saving lives. Your donation will directly help those greatly affected by this disaster.

I'm in daily communication with people in Asheville. The emotional and financial toll is immense. I know families that lost everything. People lost businesses. Many lost a way to earn a living. Children lost schools. Our community is forever changed.

While I write this, I feel physically safe. I have power, water, food, access to gasoline and my kids are resting in a bed. Survivors guilt is real. I hate not being in Asheville assisting with the relief efforts. It was advised we evacuate, so I took my children to Northern VA. We are with my family. Processing this event will take time. I'm still not thinking clearly, but I can't let another day go by without trying to help my people.

We will rebuild our community one step at a time. I am personally organizing this fundraiser to ensure that the money goes directly to the families in our area who need it the most. Your kindness will have a direct impact on families who have lost so much. Thank you.