Please help fix what Hurricane Helene destroyed

Hurricane Helene brought the worst flooding seen in Swannanoa, NC in 230 years. My younger sister lives in this small town with a population of around 5,000 people. They suffered a deadly mudslide, 140 mph winds, and floods that are being labeled as “biblical” and “apocalyptic.” Helene destroyed so much of this tiny mountain town, and it tragically claimed the lives of more than one of her neighbors. My sister is the most selfless, generous, amazing human being I have ever known. She spent the storm helping to dig people out of collapsed homes and helping search for lives to save. She also is never ever the one to ask for help. I have not told her I’m starting this, and I cannot promise she will approve, but the damage this storm left is going to cost thousands upon thousands of dollars. While her home did make it through, it sustained serious water damage to her office and property. My brother-in-law’s restaurant is pictured in the above photo, and the damage to it hasn’t even been fully assessed yet. It is in the River Arts District of Asheville, and the river it sits on rose by over 21 feet. The restaurant will have to be closed for an unknown period of time, which is going to further affect income and their livelihood.

I know there are so many that this storm has affected, and that money is tight all around. But, my feeling is that when people come together, incredible things can happen. Financial catastrophes like these need all the help they can get. If you can find it in your heart to spare anything to help, it would be incredibly appreciated. If you cannot, if you could share this with others, maybe we can help this incredibly deserving family. My sister is my hero, and I would love nothing more than to help her through this impossible time. Thank you!

In an effort to be completely transparent, I am Mian, Zoe’s oldest sister, and I live in Charlotte, NC. I am starting this on her behalf, but I have not told her of my intention to do so, because it is not in her nature to accept help easily. I cannot promise she will use these funds only her herself, my main goal is to help repair her home and restaurant. She always helps others before herself however, so it is possible that some of this money could be used to help the general Swannanoa community as well. All money will be used to help recover from this hurricane and the damage it left.