State Budget Director Walker Volunteers in Western NC

State Budget Director Kristin Walker views ongoing needs and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene

TOWN OF COLUMBUS

Jan 23, 2025

State Budget Director Kristin Walker traveled to Western North Carolina to join in a Day of Service on January 21 in coordination with Governor Josh Stein and other cabinet leaders.

"It is heartening to see so many people making a difference in Western North Carolina, where the post-Helene needs are massive," said Director Walker. "We know that recovery is a long road, and it will take help from all quarters. Every volunteer matters. Every donation counts. Every dollar committed to recovery has an impact."

Director Walker visited the Big Ivy Community Center (BICC) in Barnardsville. The center and its grounds were flooded during Hurricane Helene, disrupting normal operations. The organization has shifted focus to meet post-storm needs and the property is now operating as a local hub for disaster relief. Director Walker heard directly from volunteers and saw first-hand the distribution center operations and the positive impact the Center is having.

State Budget Director Walker (fourth from left) meets volunteers at the Big Ivy Community Center distribution center.

Director Walker spent the afternoon assisting the Sanctuary at Red Bell Run in the Town of Columbus. The equine sanctuary jumped in to assist the region by volunteering to oversee a hay and feed bank. Donations come in daily from across the country. Those in need can receive up to two weeks of feed at a time.

Sanctuary at Red Bell Run resident, Spicy.

Recovery efforts continue at a feverish pace across Western North Carolina. The storm wreaked havoc on housing, infrastructure, and the economy in the 39 counties included in the federal disaster declaration following Hurricane Helene. OSBM has estimated that damages and needs from Hurricane Helene topped more than $59.6 billion.

If you are interested in volunteering to help with post-disaster recovery, please see the volunteer opportunities in Western North Carolina from the state's Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service.

• Hurricane Helene Damage and Needs Assessment

Marcia Evans

[email protected]