Bounty & Soul Delivery Update
As temperatures plummet this week in Western North Carolina, Buddhist Relief was able to make a critical delivery of 150 new warm jackets and over 70 new blankets for distribution. The first delivery went out immediately, along with other warm items such as propane, Hot Hands, sleeping bags, and indoor-safe propane heaters. These essential supplies will be delivered directly to more than 40 families, many of whom have small children and babies. Buddhist Relief sourced these items quickly after an urgent request was made by Paula, Director of Operations at Bounty & Soul.
Bounty & Soul volunteers were thrilled to see the warm jackets and blankets, as they were already packing a distribution van set to go out by early afternoon with critical supplies. Volunteers helped unload large donation boxes from Kelly’s camper van, a local resident of Black Mountain and Buddhist Relief volunteer. Her van is now being used as a supply vehicle to transport items to our partners on the ground. Buddhist Relief’s flexibility in meeting urgent needs and pivoting in times of crisis has been crucial to on-the-ground relief efforts and supporting our partners.
Many families in the region still lack electricity, internet, or water, making it critical to stay warm as temperatures drop to freezing. Even where electricity has been restored, some families are facing issues with HVAC units or other electrical appliances due to house damage. In certain areas, water service is expected to take another four weeks to return fully. Meanwhile, water that has been restored in Asheville and nearby communities is currently non-potable due to contamination and high chlorine levels.
Providing basic necessities like new warm clothing helps ensure survival while offering hope and dignity to those rebuilding their lives. It shows people that they are worthy and cared for during this challenging time.
“The recovery phase post-Helene will be a marathon, not a sprint,” said Bounty & Soul Founder and Executive Director, Ali Casparian. “Generous donations not only offer hope but also send a clear message that the people of Swannanoa are worthy of relief and that the town of Swannanoa and surrounding areas are worth rebuilding. Support will have a meaningful impact on our ability to meet the immediate, evolving, and ongoing needs of the Swannanoa Valley community.”
Donate to the KPC Buddhist Relief Hurricane Helene Support Fund. All donations will be used to purchase the high-priority items requested by our partners on behalf of the community in need. We will also continue supporting our Maryland partners as we address these urgent needs.
