FUEL HOPE PROGRAM

Help Our Families Reclaim Hope: Replace Vehicles Lost to Hurricane Helene

When Hurricane Helene swept through, it left behind devastation we're only beginning to understand. For many in our community, the loss wasn't just about houses or possessions—it was losing their lifeline. Cars were destroyed, swept away, or submerged beyond repair. Now, without a vehicle, families face the painful reality of losing jobs, missing vital medical appointments, and struggling to meet basic needs.

Imagine trying to rebuild your life after a disaster, only to find yourself unable to get to work or take your children to school. Without a car, how do you search for a new job, get to a grocery store, or even connect with support services? Many of our neighbors feel stranded and hopeless, just as they're trying to find the strength to start over.

We're reaching out to ask for your support to help these families get back on the road. Having a reliable vehicle is more than a convenience—it's the key to stability, resilience, and recovery. With every mile, they regain the hope and strength needed to rebuild their lives.

Your donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward replacing or repairing vehicles for those who need them most. Together, we can help families return to work, keep their children in school, and reclaim a sense of normalcy. Let's give them the gift of mobility and independence so they can hold onto their dreams and move forward.

Thank you for standing with us and helping to restore hope to our community, one car—and one family—at a time.

 

TOTAL CARS DONATED TO DATE - 3

 

beginning of appalachian disaster relief

The first week of our search and rescue efforts for hurricane Helene started in Henderson county and concluded in Yancey county, North Carolina.

When we began our efforts, we faced challenges with a weak internet signal and difficulties locating the missing person. These challenges led us to partner with the West Yancey Fire Department in Burnsville, North Carolina. Here, we set up camp and launched our search and rescue efforts. With many roads and bridges damaged or washed out, we were unable to continue using our Jeeps. Instead, we had to reply on alternative transportation, such as ATVs and side-by-sides, to navigate the terrain. Seven days after hurricane Helene, we became the first search and rescue team to access the Piney Hill area. We covered miles of rugged terrain, searching for families in need of rescue. In total, we successfully rescued seventeen (17) people, including two (2) children. However, several individuals refused to leave their homes, despite the severe damage their properties had sustained.

Currently, survivors are living in what remains of their homes, on their land in tents, or in their cars, with no power. New pathways and temporary bridges are being constructed in areas where it’s feasible, but it’s only a matter of time before they may succumb to mudslides and other dangerous weather. Without infrastructure it may take years to get the necessary materials to these people, making it a long and challenging process for them to rebuild. Many no longer have land to rebuild on, as the flooding waters have washed it away.

The aftermath of hurricane Helene has been devasting in this county and many others. Hundreds, if not thousands, of lives have been lost.

 

APPALACHIAN DISATER RELIEF

SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM

Our team is made up of veterans and first responders, highly trained and equipped for Ground, Mountain, Urban and Maritime search and rescue operations. We utilize all-terrain vehicles, off-road capable Jeeps, side-by-sides and Jon boats to ensure we can reach even the most challenging locations.

After our search and rescue mission, we felt a deep commitment to helping these families secure everything they needed to survive. From non-perishable food to generators, we worked tirelessly to provide support and relief during their time of crisis. We not only reached out to the public for assistance but also established connections with the National Guard to gather supplies daily. We coordinated the transport of these essential items from Henderson County, NC to the West Yancey Fire Department in Yancey County, NC. Our efforts have not ceased; we are still actively gathering the much-needed supplies for those affected.

Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives

Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives

 

FAMILIES WE ARE ASSISTING WITH HOUSING NEEDS

jEFF & sAMANTHA

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Jeff and Samantha faced unimaginable hardships as their home was destroyed, and they lost both of their vehicles. Throughout this difficult time, we have remained committed to supporting them—helping to rebuild their home and providing a vehicle through our Fuel Hope program. Jeff, who has been battling multiple sclerosis and early-onset dementia, has shown incredible strength, and we continue to stand by them as they navigate these challenges.

pASTOR MATT & DAWN HOPSON

Pastor Matt and Dawn Hopson tragically lost their home in the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. With the generous support of a private donor, we were able to provide the family with monetary assistance and the tools necessary to begin rebuilding. Thanks to these contributions, significant progress is being made, and their home is gradually being restored.

 

Special events FOR CHILDREN AFFECTED BY HURRICANE HELENE

  • Our Big Rig Truck 'R Treat event, scheduled for October 26th, 2024 in Spruce Pine, is a special opportunity to bring joy and a sense of community to children in areas deeply affected by Hurricane Helene. We hope to offer a bright moment of fun and celebration for families who’ve been through so much.

  • Our Joyful Hearts Toy Drive is proud to have adopted 25 children impacted by Hurricane Helene in Burnsville, NC. These special children will receive their gifts on December 7th, 2024, bringing a little extra joy and hope to their holiday season.