Support Nan, her family, and Blanco rebuild their homes.

Nan Collins and her family live in Burnsville, North Carolina on their mountain homestead and farm. With one hour evacuation notice, her son David was able to evacuate with his wife, Camille, two young sons, and their dog to a friend's house. Her ex-husband Emerson, and Marilyn (Camille's mother) evacuated to a shelter. Nan and her youngest son, Jonathon, decided to stay on the property and do what they could to save their animals and possessions (with a plan to retreat to higher ground if necessary). Flood waters have never been more than a few inches in their yard (even in the great floods of 1916 and 1977), so no one expected the magnitude of devastation.

As the water kept rising, Nan and Jon saved what they could. Having to retreat up into the hills, they were wedged in the coves of the mountain for days without power, road service or bridge accessibility due to the massive rains of Hurricane Helene. Nan and Jonathon witnessed their homes, livestock, garden, and vehicles get consumed by the raging flood waters. They witnessed their cat, Blanco, whom they thought was following them up into the cove, stranded on the roof of the RV he called home, as it floated off and hit the neighbors house, and he fell into the water. (Miraculously, he returned 8 days later, back to his home!)

They lost almost everything they own, save for the few vehicles they were able to drive up far enough through the mud and water. Their septic system and well plumbing have also been damaged. The area is expected to be without power for months.

Any level of generosity would be greatly appreciated and the funds will go towards rebuilding and starting over further up in the hills, out of reach of any future flooding events. New septic, water well, pad grading, electric facilities, and more need to happen to get the family up to safety. Thank you all so much for your love and support.❤️♾️

I am Deb McNair, a member of COC, organizing this fundraiser for my sister Nan, who lives in WNC with her two young grandsons and extended family on their mountain property. Join me in sending love and light to the impacted communities.