Our Community, Our Recovery
Dear friends and neighbors,
Beacon’s work continues as our community recovers from Helene—and we’d love your help in the months ahead.
How You Can Help
Volunteer: Sign up to volunteer and we’ll connect you with a local project that fits your skills, expertise, and availability.
→ Volunteer here
Donate Funds: Support our housing, restoration, and resilience work across Yancey County.
→ Contribute here
Donate Propane: Donate to the Yancey Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) account at Blossman Gas to ensure our community stays warm this winter. Propane will be distributed by the LTRG to neighbors in need. To make a donation, call Blossman at (828) 682 - 2118 or stop by their Burnsville office.
Donate Food: Donations of fresh, frozen, and nonperishable items (nonperishable items preferred) are accepted at Reconciliation House in Burnsville on MWF between 9 am - 4 pm and on Tuesday and Thursday between 9 am - 2 pm.
Spread the Word: Share our updates and new biweekly newsletter to help connect neighbors with available resources.
Things to Know
Bee Log BBQ on Nov. 15th
Bee Log Community & Relief Center will host a free community BBQ on Saturday, November 15th, beginning at 11 am. Plates and pantry staples will be available as long as supplies last.
Reconciliation House Distribution Times:
Food is distributed at the Reconciliation House every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am - 12 pm. More information can be found at the Reconciliation House website.
Camper Winter Weatherization Support:
If you are a Helene survivor living in a camper or trailer, we’re here to help with winter weatherization.
→ Request support here
Land & Waterway Restoration:
Private landowners can request help clearing or restoring storm-impacted areas.
→ Submit interest form
Yancey County Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) Office:
The LTRG now has a physical office at 715 E Main Street in Burnsville. Visit the office for information on current resources, to sign up for case management, and access available support. Office hours are 9 am - 4 pm MWThF and 1 pm - 4 pm on Tuesdays. Renew NC will be present in the office on Mondays and Wednesdays.
State Reimbursement for Repairs:
If you used personal funds to repair a private bridge or road damaged by Helene, you may qualify for state reimbursement. Funds are limited, so apply soon.
→ Apply here
Community Cookout:
We’re planning our next Beacon community cookout for this winter—stay tuned for details!
A Year of Recovery and Connection
There is much work still ahead, but together we’ve already accomplished so much. In the year since the storm, Beacon has worked alongside partners and volunteers (YOU!) to restore our lands and strengthen our community.
What We’ve Accomplished Together:
Removed 70,000+ pounds of debris from the South Toe River Valley
Distributed, planted, and propagated 1,000+ native plants across Yancey County
Coordinated 500+ volunteers across recovery efforts in collaboration with our partners and the LTRG
Hosted Resource Fairs serving over 600 residents with vital recovery tools
Looking Ahead:
Housing for Survivors: Expanding both temporary and permanent housing options.
Watershed Restoration: Extending our work from the South Toe to the Cane and North Toe Rivers.
Resilience Building: Working with partners to create Community Hubs—solar-powered spaces ready for future emergencies.
Quarterly Cookouts: Seasonal gatherings to connect, celebrate, and serve our neighbors.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re rebuilding a stronger, more connected Yancey County. Please stay in touch.
With gratitude,
Sarah Ogletree & The Beacon Team
