The celebration will bring hope.
A North Carolina community still recovering from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene has found a reason to celebrate this Christmas season. On December 14, residents of the Chimney Rock-Lake Lure area will gather for a heartwarming holiday event featuring live music, cookies, hot cocoa, and a special toy for every child, courtesy of Santa Claus. This festive occasion is made possible by a collaboration of nonprofits, businesses, and faith-based organizations determined to bring joy and hope to those affected by the storm.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in September, unleashing heavy rains, flooding, and powerful winds that caused widespread damage. The Chimney Rock and Lake Lure regions were particularly devastated, with homes submerged, roads destroyed, and families displaced. Businesses and infrastructure also suffered severely, while landslides and flooding hampered relief efforts. The Christmas celebration is a testament to the resilience of the community and the dedication of organizations working to restore normalcy.
This event is part of ongoing recovery initiatives led by groups such as CityServe, 180 Disaster Relief, Spokes of Hope, Paula White Ministries, and others. These partners have been instrumental in providing critical aid to the region since the storm’s aftermath. “As the holidays approach and many relief efforts wind down, we want the people of Chimney Rock to know we’re here for them,” said Todd Lamphere, Senior Vice President of CityServe. The group’s mission has included providing essential supplies, supporting rescue operations, and ensuring families have the resources they need to recover.
Relief efforts have included innovative solutions like mobile kitchens serving thousands of meals daily and the deployment of Starlink satellite units by SpaceX to restore internet connectivity in remote areas. Helicopters, flown by former Navy SEALs, have delivered aid to inaccessible mountaintop communities, emphasizing the commitment of relief organizations to reach every family in need.
Despite the support from private and faith-based groups, some have criticized the federal response, including FEMA’s delayed action in the region. Mitch Collier, a Christian chaplain with Cajun Navy 2016, called the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene the worst he has witnessed. Drawing strength from his faith, Collier reflected on the resilience of those he’s helped, recounting moments of gratitude and hope amid devastation. “God sent us here,” he said. “One man told me I saved his life, but I told him, ‘God saved your life.’”
This Christmas celebration is a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the spirit of giving during challenging times.