STILL HERE, STILL RISING
Rebuilding Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene
WHEN THE FLOOD WATERS RECEDED, WE WERE THERE
On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene brought historic flooding, powerful winds and deadly landslides to Western North Carolina. Many residents lost everything, and entire communities were cut off from the outside world without power, drinking water or access to roads.
Within 24 hours, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte was there to provide disaster relief, and we will remain in Western North Carolina to support recovery efforts until our help is no longer needed.
$44.4 billion
in direct damage
4.6 million
people in
disaster zones
73,000
damaged homes
2,200
landslides
39 NC counties
declared federal disaster areas, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
6,900+
roads and bridges
damaged or destroyed
In the months since the storm, residents have faced a long and difficult recovery—rebuilding what was lost while bracing for future disasters. Yet the spirit of Western North Carolina endures, as neighbors, nonprofits, and businesses have come together to build a safer future while dealing with the challenges that come with long-term recovery. That’s why Catholic Charities is still there, walking alongside communities to rebuild and restore lives for as long as it takes.
Swift Response
After Hurricane Helene, 39 North Carolina counties were declared federal disaster areas. Catholic Charities has responded with aid across 33 counties and 155 zip codes.
“We were ground zero. We were ready for rain, but nobody expected anything like this.”
– Maria Elena Figueroa Luna, whose family’s auto repair shop along the Swannanoa River was left in ruins by Hurricane Helene
