Hurricane Helene 

Designation: AOMI Hurricane Response

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Hurricane Helene struck Florida on September 27, 2024, as a Category 4 hurricane, before moving inland and hitting North Carolina on September 28. The storm left a trail of destruction across the state, causing catastrophic flooding and devastation in western North Carolina. By September 28, communities like Asheville were largely underwater, and many roads became impassable due to debris and flooding. Tragically, over 200 lives were lost in North Carolina, with countless families left homeless and in urgent need of support. The aftermath of Helene highlighted the critical need for disaster relief and recovery efforts in the affected regions.

In response, Acts of Mercy International is providing immediate relief and assistance to affected communities. Initially, this includes food and water distribution sites, coordinating supply drop-offs, search and rescue, medical assistance, and creating programs to support long-term recovery. Additionally, we are offering prayer support to uplift and comfort those in distress. We know that in times like these it is Jesus alone who is the ultimate comforter. We are committed to helping rebuild lives and restoring hope in the wake of this disaster.

Our Response

Acts of Mercy has two primary operating bases located in Boone and Asheville. In Asheville our work includes:

  • Food and Water Assistance:

    • Distribution: AOMI has a dedicated distribution site to provide essential food and water to those in need.

    • Food Supply Channel: A reliable food supply channel has been established to ensure residents have consistent access to food.

    • Non-Potable Water Supply: We have organized non-potable water distribution points to help meet the community's urgent water needs.

  • Partnership with Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM ): AOMI is collaborating with new partners like ABCCM to deliver food directly to marginalized and low-income communities, ensuring that those most in need are not overlooked.

  • Search and Rescue Operations: Teams are actively engaged in search and rescue efforts, prioritizing the safety of individuals who may are inaccessible or unaccounted for. We are coordinating with local authorities to ensure that rescue operations are swift and effective.

  • Medical Assistance: AOMI medical teams are providing medical care to remote communities who are cut off from accessing basic medical care.

  • Cleanup Initiatives: Our teams are working throughout the community to begin cleaning out mud, debris, and destruction from residential homes.

In Boone, our team is collaborating with local churches including Antioch Boone and Antioch Raleigh to provide vital support through:

  • Food and Water Assistance:

    • Bulk Supply Drops: We are organizing significant supply drop-offs to distribution centers in the area, ensuring that essential resources reach those in need.

    • Essential Supplies: AOMI is providing non-perishable food and clean water directly to residents in need of supplies.

  • Cleanup Initiatives: Our teams are working throughout the community to begin cleaning out mud, debris, and destruction from residential homes.

Please watch the video below from the Executive Director of Acts of Mercy International, Kevin Johnson.

Designation: AOMI Hurricane Response