Months after Hurricane Helene ravaged North Carolina, Catholic Charities and local parishes continue to provide critical support to families in need. From emergency relief to long-term recovery, their efforts are helping rebuild lives in the Diocese of Charlotte.
In Swannanoa, St. Margaret Mary parish has been at the center of recovery efforts. “Many families lost everything,” said business manager Claudia Graham. The parish has provided counseling, financial aid and support for rebuilding, thanks to a hurricane-relief fund and donations from Catholic Charities.
Amazing
This is the Catholic Church’s response to helping the victims of Hurricane Helene, which has already claimed over 200 lives. The Catholic bishop of Charlotte in North Carolina, along with priests and laypeople, is actively involved in distributing aid.
Video: Catholic… pic.twitter.com/PTWP7gBJSg
— Sachin Jose (@Sachinettiyil) October 5, 2024
Tourism, once a cornerstone of the local economy, has vanished. Many residents are out of work as businesses struggle to reopen. Despite these challenges, holiday initiatives like free meals and Christmas markets have offered comfort to families during the season.
Help Survivors in Western North Carolina Recover from Hurricane Helene. Your gift will make a difference and help individuals and families rebuild their lives. You can make a Disaster Relief donation to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte. Thank you.https://t.co/uIrryW9CIk
— Bro James Reiter, OFM Conv (@brojimr) October 7, 2024
At St. Eugene Parish in Asheville, the storm caused extensive damage. The church has distributed $275,000 in relief funds and is supporting over 700 families through its Angel Tree program. Pastor Father Patrick Cahill noted that the parish still faces financial challenges but remains committed to its mission.
Hispanic ministry coordinator Antonio Garcia has focused on rebuilding mobile homes for uninsured families. “The need is overwhelming, but we’re making progress,” he said, highlighting the generosity of organizations like CORE and Catholic Charities.
Help victims of Hurricane Helene by donating to Catholic Charities USA at https://t.co/DIwK7cEcrb
or those specifically in North Carolina by donating to Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte at https://t.co/XZtX0fyIVc
Thank you!
— St. Joan of Arc Parish (@StJoansMarlton) October 3, 2024
Donations from across the country have been vital to these efforts. Bishop Michael Martin has also implemented a sister-parish program, connecting unaffected parishes with those in need to foster unity and support.
