A Week of Warmth & Restoration
8 Campers Weatherized • 150+ Trees Planted
And more happening every week — thanks to you.
Dear friends and neighbors,
Last week was another powerful reminder of what this community can do when we show up for one another. Thirty-five International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) volunteers, working alongside our newly hired crew and Construction Coordinator Justin, helped weatherize multiple campers so Helene survivors have warmth and safety through the winter.
Just a few miles away, our Restoration Coordinator Keira and a dedicated volunteer team planted nearly 200 native trees — healing soil, protecting our river, and helping the land recover for generations to come.
Every act of care adds up. Thank you to everyone who continues to turn compassion into action. We are building hope here — together.
How You Can Help
Volunteer
Join a local recovery project that fits your skills and availability.
→ Volunteer link
Donate Funds
Support housing, restoration, and resilience work across Yancey County.
→ Donation link
Donate Propane
Help keep neighbors warm by donating to the LTRG account at Blossman Gas.
Call (828) 682-2118 or visit their Burnsville office.
Spread the Word
Share these updates so neighbors know where support is available.
Resources & Support
American Red Cross Extended Recovery Program (ERA)
Financial assistance is available for eligible Helene-impacted households. Visit the LTRG office for more information and assistance in applying.
715 E Main Street, Burnsville
MWThF 9am–4pm | Tu 1pm–4pm
Camper & Trailer Winterization Support
Help is available for Helene survivors in temporary housing.
→ Request support
Land & Waterway Restoration:
Private landowners can request help clearing or restoring storm-impacted areas.
→ Submit interest form
Food Support
Reconciliation House in Burnsville distributes food every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 9am–12pm.
Food donations accepted M/W/F 9am–4pm & Tu/Th 9am–2pm.
Diaper Distribution
Reconciliation House — December 9th, 4–6pm
All families are welcome!
Private Roads & Bridges Repair Reimbursement
If you used personal funds to repair storm-damaged access, you may qualify for reimbursement from the state.
Funds are limited — apply soon.
→ Application link
Debris Removal Support
Trash and non-vegetative debris clean up is available via MountainTrue.
📞 Mark: 828-617-0836.
LTRG Support Office
715 E Main Street, Burnsville
MWThF 9am–4pm | Tu 1pm–4pm
Case management and recovery resources available.
Renew NC onsite Mondays & Wednesdays.
Community Events
Bee Log Fall Festival
📍 Bee Log Community & Relief Center
🗓 This Saturday | 1–4pm
🍲 Chili cook-off • Games • Renew NC on site
Come enjoy community, food, and fun!
Beacon Updates
Our current focus areas include:
Protecting families in temporary housing through winter weatherization
Restoring riverbanks, farmland, and habitats damaged by the storm
Supporting long-term housing access and community resilience
Every camper completed, every tree planted, every neighbor connected to resources — each action moves recovery forward.
Thank you for your care for this place and the people who call it home. We’re honored to be in this work with you.
With gratitude,
Sarah Ogletree & The Beacon Team
