2024 Flood Information & Relief Resources
Once in a lifetime flood.
The 2024 floods caused by Hurricane Helene devastated large portions of Western North Carolina and East Tennessee. Torrential rains from the hurricane caused rivers and streams to overflow, leading to widespread flooding that destroyed homes, bridges, and infrastructure, and tragically resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of communities.
A focal point of this disaster was the Nolichucky Dam in Greene County, Tennessee. Despite concerns that it might fail under the unprecedented water pressure—a catastrophe that could have led to further destruction—the dam held strong. Built in 1913, this historic structure faced the greatest test of its lifetime when floodwaters surged to a record-breaking 1.2 million gallons per second at the peak, nearly double the volume of Niagara Falls at its highest flow of 700,000 gallons per second.
The Nolichucky Dam withstood these extreme conditions, battling debris from destroyed homes and bridges, and protected the people living along its riverbanks. Its resilience during the flood saved countless lives, and in recognition of her strength and service to the community, the dam earned the fitting title of the "Grand Ole Lady."
This flood stands as a stark reminder of the power of nature, but also as a testament to the strength of the structures and communities in Appalachia. The Grand Ole Lady has become a symbol of protection and endurance for the region.
- Appalachian Service Project (ASP)
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Focuses on home repair and disaster relief in the Appalachian region, serving impoverished families with safe, dry, and warm housing. Volunteers come from across the country, but their impact is local to the Appalachian Mountains.
- Hope Force International
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A faith-based organization that mobilizes volunteers to provide disaster response and recovery in areas of need, both in the U.S. and abroad, but with a focus on regional and community-driven projects.
- Mission of Hope
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Based in Tennessee, this organization serves the Appalachian region, providing food, clothing, hygiene items, and education services to impoverished communities.
- Somebody Cares
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This is a network of local chapters that respond to crisis and disasters, providing relief supplies, food, and support services to people in need. It’s more regionally focused, with various hubs around the U.S.
- Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS)
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While MDS operates nationally, its efforts often focus on smaller, regional disaster recovery efforts, especially in rural areas. They help with rebuilding homes and communities after natural disasters.
- His Hands Ministries
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This regional ministry often focuses on disaster relief, food assistance, and local outreach in specific regions, particularly in under-served or rural communities.
- Eight Days of Hope
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Based out of Mississippi, this nonprofit focuses on rebuilding homes and providing relief after natural disasters, particularly in the southeastern U.S. Their efforts are volunteer-driven and often concentrate on specific disaster-hit areas.