The latest natural disaster caused billions of dollars of damage in a path from the Florida Big Bend into the Western Carolinas.
The toll will be staggering when it’s all added up following the destructive bent Hurricane Helene took and while it will eventually result in a boom in the rebuilding trade in the affected areas, for now the industry is focused on its disaster relief efforts.
The Building Material Suppliers Association, representing the industry in North Carolina, one of the hardest hit areas, put out a statement of support on social media. “It’s heartbreaking to see the devastation unfolding in Western North Carolina. The communities in this beautiful region, known for their resilience and tight-knit spirit, are now facing unimaginable challenges due to the recent devastation. Homes, livelihoods and landscapes cherished by so many have been severely impacted.”
Lowe’s, the big home improvement chain based in North Carolina, said it has committed $2 million in relief funds, saying it is assisting its nonprofit partners and first responders, helping these organizations provide emergency shelter, food and water while also supporting long-term rebuilding and recovery. Last week Lowe’s stores were set to host relief events to distribute cleanup supplies in more than 25 communities across the affected regions. The company is also working closely with first responders to distribute relief supplies, such as water, chainsaws and generators.
Home Depot, based in Georgia, another hard-hit state, stepped up its efforts, saying it was also committing $2 million through its Home Depot Foundation while its Team Depot employee organization said it was donating relief supplies throughout the impacted areas. Home Depot’s efforts included donations to World Central Kitchen and the ToolBank Disaster Services organization. Its Homer Fund was helping company employees who were hit by the storm and needed assistance, as well.
Image: Lowe’s Facebook page
