Hurricane Helene made landfall on Thursday, September 26, 2024, striking Florida’s Big Bend as a powerful Category 4 storm. While it weakened as it moved inland, the remnants brought catastrophic flooding and widespread damage to western North Carolina, with torrential rains—up to 30 inches in some areas—causing rivers to overflow, leading to landslides, road washouts, and destruction of entire communities. Towns like Swannanoa and Asheville were devastated, with many homes destroyed in flooded areas.
 
The Black Mountains region, including Chimney Rock, faced particularly severe flooding, isolating communities and requiring hundreds of rescues via helicopter. One of the first rescues was performed on September 28 by a civilian helicopter coordinated by Adam Smith to extract his 3.5-year-old daughter and her mother from NC Hwy 9. Once his family was safe, efforts shifted to checking on neighbors, dropping supplies, and evacuating stranded people. With support from many generous individuals and nonprofits, Savage Freedoms Relief Operations was born.
 
Since then, over a million pounds of supplies have been moved via air and ground by more than a thousand volunteers to those in dire need. As immediate rescue efforts wind down, Savage Freedoms is pivoting toward long-term recovery and rebuilding. Many families lost everything, and with winter approaching, urgent needs include temporary and permanent housing, road repair, and debris clearing. Efforts are focused on bringing in tiny homes, campers, and RVs for shelter, but much more is needed to rebuild these communities.
 
Trace 3 has generously committed to match employee donations to Savage Freedoms Relief Operations, helping us continue to rebuild homes, lives, and hope. This wouldn't be possible without support from generous people!

Follow Savage Freedoms Relief Operations on social media to stay updated on our mission:
 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savagefreedomsops
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