our local electronic fishwrap provided this update on hurricane recovery; 

Over five months after Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, the region continues to grapple with significant recovery challenges. While progress has been made, several critical needs remain unmet:

Job Loss due to Helene: Beyond the physical destruction, Hurricane Helene inflicted significant economic hardship on Western North Carolina. Widespread job losses due to business closures and damage exacerbate individuals’ and families’ challenges while striving to rebuild their homes and lives. In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Foscoe Home Team sprang into action, providing essential resources to ease the immense hardship caused by widespread unemployment. From the first few days following the storm, FHT has offered food assistance, utility aid, and housing support, helping those affected stay afloat while they searched for new employment or rebuilt their businesses.

Housing Crisis: The sheer scale of destruction is staggering, estimates show over 74,000 homes either completely destroyed or suffering damage, rendering them uninhabitable. The lack of adequate temporary housing remains a major obstacle to recovery. Many not only lost their homes but their land was also taken by rivers that have created new paths in the wake of the floods.

Energy Insecurity: Widespread propane tank damage from the storm and the increased use of alternative heating in temporary housing during unusually cold weather have created a life-threatening energy crisis. The Foscoe Home Team is working tirelessly to address the crisis by providing free propane, firewood, heaters, and financial assistance for heating costs..........more.....