MEAT CAMP, N.C. — The North Carolina High Country has rallied around its community members in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
In Watauga County, relief has been extended to some of the hardest-hit areas. One of these places is Meat Camp, a small community that is supposedly named after a primitive packing house used by hunters since before the Revolutionary War.
The Meat Camp Fire Department is the place for people in the community to come and get what they need. WFMY News 2 reporter Taylor Leverett was in Meat Camp on Wednesday and spoke with many people who were brought to tears at how much support they're receiving.
"It means a lot to everybody, and we thank 'em for it," said Meat Camp resident Mike Dollar.
Dollar is one of countless residents in the community left with almost nothing. The bridge that leads up to his home has washed away down stream.
Dollar told WFMY News 2 the help he has received from the community has carried him through this difficult time.
"Like I said, it's very emotional. We just thank everybody for helping us," he said.
That seems to be the theme across Meat Camp in the wake of Helene — everyone is pitching in to lend a helping hand.
Meat Camp resident Stacey Martin said the road up to her home is gone because of the storm. What remains is her faith in her community.
"It's just really amazing to see in this community people are willing to lend a hand even when their needs aren't even being met," Martin said.
Even the children of local firefighters have pitched into help.
While so many people in Meat Camp are still without power and running water, they still want to putch in. People in the town say they will rebuild. They know it will take not only time, but the support of the entire community to do so.
If you have been affected by Helene, here's a list of helpful resources.
Looking for ways to support residents of western North Carolina affected by Helene? We've compiled a list of reputable organizations who are already delivering aid, and you can find it here.
If you would like to donate online to the American Red Cross, you can use the following link: WFMY News 2 is supporting the American Red Cross.
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