In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many families are facing devastation and loss. But thanks to generous volunteers like Tracy and Will McDaniel, relief is on the way. They have been collecting and delivering donations from the community to help those affected in the Asheville area and beyond, making sure they receive direct aid. Their efforts started at the beginning of September and continue as long as donations keep coming in from the community.

 

Helping with hurricane relief involves much more than just gathering supplies. “Once I have enough donations to fill my truck, I make the trip to North Carolina to drop them off. A group of us went with a trailer full of donations to help clear debris and trees in Hendersonville,” Tracy shares. Fellow neighbors, Brad and Beth Hart helped fill the trailer with donations and Brad recruited some great men to head north. Many of the items were delivered to a local fire department, foster care agency, humane society, and directly to families. Tracy and her group also monitor Facebook pages to identify specific needs within the affected communities, ensuring that the right resources reach the right people.

 

The mission is about making sure that everything collected goes directly to those in need.  Tracy’s dedication during this challenging hurricane season has become more than a full-time job, but she is determined to continue as long as there are people who need help.

 

The McDaniel’s encourage everyone to get involved in whatever way they can. “Donate. You can donate to any group or collection site you’re comfortable with,” Tracy explains. For those who want to contribute directly, Tracy can be reached at tracyymcdaniel@gmail.com. “It doesn’t matter how small the donation is, it can make a big difference.”

 

The entire McDaniel family is deeply involved in donation efforts. Will, helps pick up and purchase items, and makes donation trips with her when he can. Their children assist in picking up donations, organizing donations, and spreading the word about what’s needed. It truly is a family affair.

 

The support extends well beyond the McDaniel household, with other neighbors pitching in. “I feel like our entire neighborhood is donating in one way or another,” Tracy says. “The Hart family was incredible with donations, and the willingness to help. It was unexpected and such a beautiful act of service.” Local businesses have also stepped up. Melody and her husband, Michael  at The Rusted Daisy opened their salon as a drop-off site, and the Hampton Inn & Suites in Flowery Branch provided space for donations and contributed to the relief efforts themselves.

 

In times of disaster, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about how to help. Tracy’s message is simple: don’t let fear or indecision prevent you from acting. “Too often we are paralyzed and then do nothing,” she says. “Doing nothing not only hurts those in need, but it hurts that part of you that wanted to help in the first place. Do your research, make a decision, and simply help.”

 

Her words carry a powerful reminder: “Darkness is everywhere, be a light.”

 

If you want to join the community efforts or get more involved, contact her today. Your contribution, no matter how small, can bring hope and relief to those facing the hardships of Hurricane Helene. Together, we can make a difference.