By: Kaitlyn Connolly

Nearly a year has passed since Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, leaving behind a trail of destruction and uncertainty. Now, families are finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks to the partnership between the American Red Cross and the Appalachian Service Project (ASP), the first two of 100 planned homes have been dedicated, marking a major milestone in long-term recovery efforts.

“Because of our donors, the Red Cross was able to give grants for long-term recovery to help families like these,” said Scott Loudermelt, Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Piedmont Chapter. “We were here the weekend after the storm, and in fact, we couldn’t get up this road. The water had absolutely devastated these roads because of the landslides. So it’s very joyful to have an opportunity to see some hope and see some people in recovery mode.”

Brianna Brown, her husband and twin toddlers are among the first families to move into their new home.

“It was really great to watch it all from start to finish,” Brianna said. “All the volunteers were so great, the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. They built a beautiful home.”

For the past 11 months, Brianna’s family has been living in her husband’s family home, sharing tight quarters with six people. Now, they’re settling into a place that’s truly theirs. “The kids love their new rooms and everything about it. They’re excited to have their own space.”

Brianna vividly remembers the night Hurricane Helene changed everything.

“We were on the river and watched the water rising. We knew we had to leave or we wouldn’t be able to get across the bridge. We packed an overnight bag and fled to Dane’s parents’ house in Heaton. The next morning, it was bad. We couldn’t get out. Both roads were blocked by water and debris. There was no way to access our home to see if it was still there.”

It took four days before Dane was able to hike across the river to reach their property. The bridge had collapsed, leaving a 40-foot drop. With no communication, Brianna waited anxiously at his mother’s house, hoping and praying for their safe return.

“When they got there, there wasn’t much left to salvage. Everything was sopping wet and ruined. My brother’s house was next door, and after the storm it was crumpled up in our yard. His house was gone.”

For Brianna, the thought of leaving Avery County, where generations of her family have lived, was devastating. “We’ve never left this county. I was thinking we might have to go somewhere else. But now, we’re able to stay in Avery County where our family is and rebuild our lives.”

For Brianna and her family, the new home brings more than just shelter.

“As a young parent, you’re constantly worrying, will I be able to provide for them? Will they have everything they need? Not having a mortgage and being able to sustain a family, knowing you’ll have a roof over your head even when you’re gone, you can’t explain the feeling it gives you. It’s great to know the kids will always have somewhere to call home.”