SmAsh Meals: Rebuilding Together After Disaster
Resilience and Compassion: A Journey Through North Carolina
A Community Update Provided by Lewis Kizer of SmAsh Meals
In the heart of Newland, NC and Spruce Pine, NC a story unfolded recently that truly captures the essence of resilience and compassion. Hurricane Helene has left these communities facing some serious challenges. But even in the toughest times, hope shines brightly. I had the chance to help pass out food and supplies to those in need. As I worked alongside the people here, I saw their strength and unity come to life. From volunteers working tirelessly to restore what was lost, to children playing among ruins with unbroken spirits, Newland's journey is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community.
Helping Hands and Healing Hearts
As I stepped into Newland, North Carolina, I was on a heartfelt mission. We were delivering essential food and supplies to people struggling after a devastating disaster. What I witnessed was both moving and heart-wrenching—shifting between gratitude and sadness as the community's resilience and need unfolded before my eyes.
A Warm Meal and a Warmer Welcome
During my time there, I came upon a group of dedicated workers, tirelessly lending their help to everyone affected. When I approached them with some food, they kindly shared, "We just ate, but we'd love some for later because it's hard to find food each day we're out." It's tough to see these generous folks, already doing so much to help, also struggling to meet their own needs. The moment was filled with warmth and appreciation, serving as a reminder of how important small acts of kindness can be during such challenging times.
Scenes of Destruction
At Buck Hill Campground, located near Spruce Pond, the sight was staggering. The entire campground lay demolished, debris scattered as a testament to nature's power. Volunteers from across the country had gathered, carefully sorting through the wreckage, determined to recover what they could. In these moments, it became evident: "Look at this destruction... their entire campground got destroyed." Yet, amidst the ruins, the spirit of the community was unbreakable.
A Community United
Despite the destruction, it's remarkable how much gratitude exists—how many people are thankful, even in such dire circumstances. Volunteers work hard, smiles steadfast despite adversity, united by a common goal: to rebuild what the storm ripped apart. Community facilities, vital to many, reduced to debris. Basketball courts, baseball and softball fields, and beloved playgrounds sit in ruins, stark echoes of what once was.
One sight carved into my memory was of children playing in what used to be their playground. Near the twisted metal of playground equipment wrapped around a tree by nature's force, their innocence made the devastation even more poignant. "One of the things that broke my heart was how many baseball fields, softball fields, football fields, and playgrounds I saw completely destroyed." But even against such a raw backdrop, hope flickered in their laughter and enduring spirit.
Emotions Run Deep
The day was undeniably emotionally draining. Witnessing so much destruction and heartache wears down the spirit but also ignites a deeper commitment to help. It's overwhelming, and you can't help but feel for those who've lost not just possessions, but spaces—places where communities come together, where kids grow and play, and where memories are made.
Building Back Better
In times like these, I'm reminded we have a bigger duty: to band together and look toward the future. "In the coming months and the coming years, I hope that we as a society band together and help these kids and help the kids to come have a place to play," rings as a call to action for collective recovery. The road ahead is challenging, but with each contribution, rebuilding is not just a hope—it's a reality.
By joining forces, we can rebuild not only the structures but restore the vitality of these vibrant communities. There's so much we can do, and so many ways to help. I hope you'll find your role in supporting small towns like these in East Tennessee and North Carolina as they rise again.
What You Can Do
This isn't just about rebuilding physical spaces; it's about people and their lives. Your help can mean donating resources, volunteering time, or even sharing these stories to motivate others to take action. Every effort contributes to a restored and resilient future—where playgrounds echo with laughter, fields host exciting games, and communities thrive once more.
As I reflect on this journey, if there's one thing I've learned, it's the incredible power of community and compassion. The people working to rebuild Newland and Spruce Pine have faced the unimaginable, yet their gratitude and determination shine brightly. Let's take up this call: there's much that can be done, and I hope you find your place in helping North Carolina and East Tennessee rebuild. Together, we can turn this chapter of destruction into one of renewal and rebirth.
Let's embark on this journey together. Let's support each other and rebuild what matters the most.
For more information on how you can help, visit Smashmeals.com.
Chamber Pulse
