My sister, Rene Treece, has been deeply affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene, and any support you can offer would mean the world to her and our family. Words can’t fully express our gratitude for your kindness, whether through a small gesture or a larger contribution.

More than five weeks have passed since Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, and Rene is still struggling to find a sense of normalcy in her life and work in Asheville. She has spent countless hours helping others in need, but the reality of her own situation is becoming overwhelming.

Rene and her daughter face enormous challenges as she tries to restore her home and small business, a cherished photography studio that once thrived in Asheville’s River Arts District. Her home suffered extensive water and mold damage, and navigating the claims process with insurance and FEMA has proven frustrating and largely unsuccessful. She is now facing substantial out-of-pocket costs for critical repairs to her home, including mold remediation and structural work. Compounding this, her family has been without safe, usable water for an extended time, with no clear end in sight as infrastructure repairs continue.

The Cotton Mill Studio, where Rene ran her photography business, was hit by catastrophic flooding that left the building submerged under 12 feet of water for days. As a result, her studio is unusable for the foreseeable future, forcing her to cease operations just as her business would typically be busiest. She was able to recover items from her Studio, but many will need to be replaced due to moisture and mold damage.

With her workspace and livelihood on hold and the financial strain of home repairs, Rene is facing significant setbacks. It will take time for her to rebuild her studio and create a stable environment for herself and her daughter in Asheville.

Thank you for considering any form of help for Rene during this incredibly challenging time. Your generosity and support will make a meaningful difference as she works to rebuild her life and business.

ABOUT RENE -

In the midst of this catastrophe, Rene has dedicated herself entirely to volunteering and assisting those in need. Each morning, she is awake before the sun looking for ways to help. She has organized a collection of funds from family and friends, using this financial support to purchase essential groceries and emergency supplies, including flashlights, personal protective equipment, warm clothing, baby necessities, gas, and even generators for those in need. On day 6, when I asked Rene if she had taken a warm shower yet, her response was, "Not yet. I could, but that doesn't seem fair."

Moreover, Rene has taken on the critical role of conducting wellness checks, ensuring that her neighbors and community members are safe and accounted for. She has taken daily trips into the mountains to deliver food, medication, and vital supplies to individuals who are still stranded and affected by the disaster. Her selflessness and determination to uplift others during such trying times are truly inspiring.

HERE ARE WHAT PEOPLE SAY -

"Rene has physically shown up every day for the community and now her asking for help is an opportunity for her blessings to come."

"Rene is such a leader and stands strong and I just hope people can help her now."

"Thank you René for all you are doing. It gives people hope!"

"Before Rene checked on her studio, she threw herself into helping neighbors and strangers."