Local folks responding to needs of Helene victims

ASHEBORO – In the wake of historic flooding in western North Carolina, Randolph County folks are stepping up to help. Dozens of organizations, businesses and schools have been collecting items to send to the mountains.

Wayne Thomas Chevrolet, at 1400 East Dixie Drive, is loading a box truck with supplies to deliver. They’re asking people to help them fill it up.

The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, with support from the City of Asheboro, collected relief items through last Thursday. There was no word if they will continue to collect items.

Candace Bongiovanni of Carolina Classic Cars on US 64 West was accepting donations, which she had committed to match, through last Friday. We are checking to see if her efforts are ongoing.

“Our hearts are heavy as we reflect on the tragedy of the recent Helene disaster,” Bongiovanni said in an email. “Many families in Asheville and the surrounding areas are facing unimaginable loss, and now is the time for us to come together as a community.”

The Randolph County website listed dozens of other organizations joining in the relief efforts. Those wishing to donate items or money can go to https://www.randolphcountync.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1581 for a list of local schools, businesses and churches who are taking donations. 

The site says: “As we have all seen the destruction of Helene to our Western NC communities, many organizations and businesses in Randolph County are willing to take up donations to meet the needs. Here is an ongoing list of opportunities to give in Randolph County:

“Click on each link to access the flyer with more details.”

Be sure to check the dates as some collections will be ended by the time this story is published.