MT HOLLY, N.C. — A Mt. Holly home by the Catawba River was nearly swallowed by the flood caused by Helene late last week.
"It was shoulder-deep in our house," said Macie Lambert, a teacher now working to put the pieces back together.
Lambert said the hurricane washed out the years of history that lived inside, with the beautiful memories now marked by the toughest stains.
"I have no words," she said. "My father and I were raised here."
Lambert said they went about knee-deep into their home, with everything floating around their homes.
"When we went to my daughter's nursery that’s when we just lost it," she said. "All her toys were just floating."
Lambert said while they managed to escape Helene, it cost them what was left behind: everything.
"We were up on our camper and we just sat and watched," she said.
Lambert works with children who have unique needs, offering them inspiration as they diligently learn. Now, her community is returning the favor as her school is taking donations for the family.
"People are reaching out that we don’t even know and that’s just the biggest thing," said Lambert.
Lambert said as they continue to push through these dark times, the community’s support helps them find beams of light. Their 1-year-old daughter depends on it.
"I cannot be more proud and blessed for the community that we have," she said.
Lambert said they did not have flood insurance and they’re not sure if they'll be able to salvage what's left. If you'd like to make a donation, click here.
Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.