Hurricane Relief in Western NC

Hurricane Relief in Western NC

Here’s how to support those in WNC affected by Hurricane Helene

Western NC needs our help in the face of absolutely heartbreaking devastation of Hurricane Helene across the mountain and foothills communities. So many have lost everything and are suffering without food, water, power—even cell service to let anyone know they need help.

Resources, money and manpower are needed to help on-the-ground volunteers across Western NC communities who are collecting and distributing a wide array of supplies. See the list below for some resources for how you can help.

Where to Donate

Triangle Drop-Off Sites 

  • Trophy Five Points will operate as an official collection point for Operation Airdrop, which is transporting supplies to Western NC. They’re accepting powdered sports drinks, baby wipes, diapers, baby formula, trash bags, sunscreen, nonperishable foods, cleaning supplies, toothbrushes/paste, pet food, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products, gloves and more. 207 Bickett Blvd., Tues.–Fri. 10am–3pm
  • ArtPost, Durham; Monday–Saturday, 12–6pm
  • Back Alley Bikes, Carrboro; Tuesday–Saturday, 11am–6pm
  • Rumah, Raleigh; See calendar for hours 

Supplies Needed

Personal:

  • Nonperishable food
  • Bottled water
  • Gatorade and hydration powder
  • Baby formula, wipes and diapers 
  • Solar chargers and battery banks 
  • Toilet paper 
  • Apple cider vinegar 

Cleaning: 

  • Bleach
  • Brooms 
  • Shovels 
  • Chainsaws and hammers 
  • Generators and fuel 
  • Dehumidifiers 
  • Box fans 
  • 2x4s 
  • Crowbars 

Local Fundraisers

  • Throughout the month of October, Hummingbird is donating 10% of all proceeds from lunch service to World Central Kitchen.
  • Wye Hill is donating $1 from every pint of Luminous Beings sold to support of Hurricane Helene Disaster relief in partnership with the NC Brewers Guild.
  • Bring in donations to Boxcar and get 10 free tokens!
  • The Produce Box is offering Feeding Families Boxes for purchase that their team will then truck out to rural communities in Western North Carolina. Choose from $25, $50 or $100 boxes—or you can choose to donate any amount via Paypal.
  • The Longleaf Lounge is donating 100% of proceeds from its Appalachian Negroni to the Community Fund of Western NC.
  • Sales from DSSOLVR’s Higher Calling hazy IPA will be donated to The NC Craft Brewers Foundation.
  • Two Roosters is donating 100% of proceeds from its Appalachian Apple Stack Cake flavor to Samaritan’s Purse through Oct. 31.
  • Over in Durham, Ex-Voto is donating $1 of every Crunchwrap sold this month.
  • Shop Local Raleigh is selling special-made T-shirts benefiting WNC. Shoutout locals Chris Bushnell for the design, NC Craft Brewers Guild – Brewery Group for the back design and Red Bird Screen Printing! If you want a shirt, email [email protected] with your size and quantity.
  • Asheville’s Shiloh & Gaines is hosting an oyster roast Nov. 2 in collab with several local breweries—with oysters provided by Mera Brothers Oysters—to benefit NCRLA.
  • From Nov. 8 to Dec. 24, Crabtree Mall will be donating a portion of proceeds from its Photos With Santa to relief efforts.
  • Dave Matthews Band is hosting SOULSHINE, a benefit concert to aid relief and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina and Florida, at MSG Nov. 24.

Local Volunteer Opportunities

  • World Central Kitchen is seeking volunteers in Raleigh to help with food prep and delivery. Fill out the volunteer form here.

For live updates on the latest conditions, click here.

Eclectic Airbnbs

Eclectic Airbnbs

Sick of looking at your four walls? Airbnbs across the state have something for everyone—and we did the hard work for you. Whether you’re a vino lover, retro seeker, woodsy type or looking for a boujee getaway, here are four unique finds for a breath of fresh air.

By Melissa Howsam and Lauren Kruchten

Woodsy Type | Tiny Geopod
Todd, NC

If you’re feeling like you need a little Walden-like “into the woods” in your life, get your “wild and free” on in this 130-square-foot clear dome (!) powered from a nearby community solar garden and surrounded by lush forests accentuated by the Blue Ridge Mountains. While here, “live deliberately” 2021-style (as Thoreau surely intended) via private hot tub, fire table and pit, gazebo, and comfy outdoor furniture—perfect for settling in with some bourbon (or cocoa) and a good book—plus an outdoor breakfast bar and kitchen for meal cooking, naturally. (And, yes, there is a “high-end” bathroom and WiFi—it’s all about balance).

After learning what the woods have to teach from your tiny geopod with its three unique outdoor areas—or full-on hike—expand your horizons with a five-minute walk to historic downtown Todd (Todd Mercantile is a must-stop for locally baked goods and unique vintage finds)—or a short drive to either downtown Boone or West Jefferson. Then, naturally, venture back to your woodsy haven and lose yourself for a bit.
airbnb.com/rooms/45557210

Vino Lover | Emerald Treehouse
Hendersonville, NC

Sip back, relax and uncork the tranquility of life in the Blue Ridge Mountains at this gorge mod mountain retreat situated just two minutes from Point Lookout Vineyards and World’s Edge Meadery and 45 minutes from downtown Asheville. Cozy up with coffee and views on the twin-size porch swings before taking in pours and breathtaking 30-mile panoramic views from your perch at the nearby wineries. Then unwind from the day by the fire pit with a bottle of 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon or Orange Blossom Mead—or, better still, with a soak in the hot tub. Hey, hakuna moscato! No matter how you drink it in, this two-bed, two-bath cozy-chic space is plum perfect for a peaceful getaway for partners in wine. airbnb.com/rooms/47729049

Boujee Escape | Glass Treehouse 
Banner Elk, NC

Boujee birches be trippin’ for this boutique hotel-meets-Mother Nature luxe mountain retreat for two—boasting glass walls overlooking a mystical waterfall-laced woodland escape that allows you to fall asleep to the sounds of cascading water (seriously, it’s straight plucked from your dreams). Stone walls, a firewood alcove, a spa-like bathroom with heated floors and a rainfall showerhead pamper you indoors, while the serene Scandinavian vibes spill outside for dining by the fire pit, double hammock lounging and soaking in a private rhododendron thicket-tucked hot tub. For a more experiential escape, hit up nearby towns for shopping, hiking, and seasonal rafting or skiing—though once you’re in the treehouse, how could you leave…? @ncglasstreehouse

Minimalist to the Max | Scandi Minimalism
Kill Devil Hills, NC

Who doesn’t love posting up in a tiny home by the out by the coast? If a swanky + shore-oriented stay is your style, find yourself booking a few nights at this outpost featured in Condé Nast Traveler as one of NC’s Best Airbnbs. Consider its modern minimalist lewks, groovy ’70s styling and open naturally lighted oasis your go-to beachy getaway. Think handselected Scandinavian pieces; a turntable and vinyl collection; serene outdoor shower strung with lights; and a sun deck/patio feat. a fire pit and gas grill.

To boot, the stand-alone stay is situated within walking distance to the Wright Memorial National Park with nearby bike paths connecting to the sound, ocean—and a smattering of craft breweries and restaurant hot spots. Stay groovy! airbnb.com/rooms/52130495