When Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina, it left devastation in its wake—destroyed homes, uprooted communities, and a trail of loss and uncertainty. In the face of such tragedy, the EPC mobilized its disaster relief team to bring both immediate aid and long-term support to the affected areas, with a commitment to show Christ’s love through action and compassion.
Witnessing the Need Firsthand
Four members of the EPC Disaster Relief Committee (DRC) traveled to Swannanoa, NC, to personally assess the damage and plan for a sustained response. The visit included stops at Valley Hope, the local EPC church, which has become a beacon of hope for the community. Valley Hope’s members have worked tirelessly to serve those in need, demonstrating a deep, enduring commitment to their neighbors.
“It’s fascinating to see how [Valley Hope] is at the heart of it all,” said Cliff Mansley, DRC co-chairman. “The heart and soul they put into helping people is inspiring.” Whitney Alexander, the other co-chairman, echoed the importance of their mission, saying, “We need to move slowly but effectively, and we need to do it for the next few years.”
EPC Stated Clerk Dean Weaver also visited the disaster site, speaking with pastors and church members affected by the storm. Dean will share his experiences in a special podcast this Friday, November 8th, where he’ll discuss the response efforts and the strength he witnessed in the local churches. Be sure to tune in to In All Things this Friday wherever you get your podcasts to hear more.
A Community of Caring Churches
The EPC’s response to Hurricane Helene has been strengthened by the network of local churches in North Carolina, many of which have banded together to provide support. Most EPC churches in the area have shown a remarkable level of care for one another and for the valley residents, including those whose members weren’t directly affected. This unity has allowed for a compassionate and effective response that meets both physical and spiritual needs.
Financial Support and Ongoing Aid
To date, donations for Hurricane Helene relief efforts have reached $412,425.96, reflecting a remarkable outpouring of support. So far, the EPC has distributed $280,000 for disaster relief, with $220,000 specifically designated for North Carolina’s recovery efforts. This financial support has been critical in providing essential supplies, rebuilding damaged structures, and supporting the volunteer teams. By equipping Valley Hope and other local EPC churches with resources, the EPC is helping them continue to serve as the hands and feet of Christ in their community.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Recovery
While immediate relief has been crucial, the EPC is dedicated to a long-term recovery plan, with a major focus on housing for volunteers. To meet this need, the DRC is partnering with Valley Hope to develop a multipurpose facility capable of housing multiple volunteer teams at once over the next three years. This facility will be vital for ongoing rebuilding and recovery efforts in the area. Whitney Alexander noted, “This is a monumental opportunity to literally be the hands and feet of Jesus.”
As we work toward healing and restoration, we invite everyone to join in prayer, volunteer their time, or contribute financially. Together, we can help the communities affected by Hurricane Helene find hope and strength in the journey ahead.
If you’re interested in sending a work team to Swannanoa in 2025, contact Lindsey Barnett, Director of Disaster Relief and Recovery, at lindsey@valleyhope.church.