Clinton Community’s Ongoing Support Brings Hope to Western North Carolina

As relief efforts continue in Western North Carolina, the Clinton community remains steadfast in providing aid to those affected by the devastation. On October 17, 2024, Howard and Cindy Pierce, along with community donations collected at All Saints Episcopal Church, made a trip to Burnsville, NC, to deliver essential supplies to the hard-hit region. Their journey, like many before, offered a stark look at the continuing challenges faced by families in the area.

Traveling along Hwy 19, they witnessed the aftermath of the disaster passing by towering piles of debris, including trees and branches stacked 30 feet high and 50 feet long. The river that once flowed gently beside the road had turned into a powerful force, devastating everything in its path. Mud-caked land stretched hundreds of yards from the riverbanks, with remnants of the flood—like pieces of clothing—still caught in the high branches of trees, evidence of the water’s incredible reach.

Yancey County has been particularly hard-hit, with many families suffering unthinkable losses as sudden rivers of mud claimed homes and lives. While rescue teams continue to work tirelessly, their focus has shifted to recovery. The Pierces met local volunteers at the West Yancey Fire Department, where one shared how difficult communication remains within the county. “Our phones don’t work, and gas is scarce. Right now, this parking lot is my whole world,” she said, emphasizing the isolation and challenges they face.

Despite these difficulties, the residents of Burnsville are showing immense resilience. Neighbors are stepping up to help one another, with some living in tents or gathering in barns to stay warm. Volunteers, including those who traveled from as far as Wyoming, are using mules and four-wheelers to deliver supplies to remote areas still cut off by the disaster.

At the West Yancey Fire Department, the Pierces saw a well-organized relief effort. Local volunteers worked tirelessly to distribute the donations, including propane tanks, heaters, camp stoves, and essential supplies like baby items and canned goods. Wyoming volunteers camped nearby, preparing to lead their mules up the mountainside to deliver much-needed relief to stranded families.

Although the donations from Clinton have been vital, the need for continued support remains urgent. With power expected to remain out for up to four more months, and supplies dwindling, the harsh winter ahead will only exacerbate the challenges faced by these communities.
Yet, as the Pierces witnessed, the determination and cooperation of the Burnsville community give hope that they will persevere.

How You Can Help
The relief efforts are ongoing, and the Clinton community can continue to play a role donating washing machine detergent, plastic crates with lids, flashlights, batteries, camp stoves, gas heaters, and propane cylinders.
*Monetary donations can be mailed or made on the church website.

Donations can be made at the following drop-off locations:
•    All Saints Episcopal Church, 505 Calvert Avenue, Clinton
•    Clinton Animal Hospital, 404 Willard Rd, Clinton

For more information or to arrange a pick-up of a large item like a generator, please contact Cindy Pierce at 864-684-9520.
Every contribution helps bring hope and relief to families in need. Together, we can make a difference as Western North Carolina continues its recovery.