DISASTER DIGEST
PREPAREDNESS PREPAREDNESS & & RESPONSE RESPONSE GUIDE GUIDE
1845 Brevard Rd, Arden, NC 28704 | 828.259.5300 | www.Faith360Network.org
Dear Neighbor, We see you. We’ve been you. We’re here for you. However you’ve arrived here, please know you are not alone in the work of relief, recovery, preparedness, or facing whatever comes next. This Disaster Digest was created from lessons learned through Hurricane Helene and other regional disasters. Time and again, we have seen that people in crisis often lack clear, accessible information when they need it most. When knowledge is shared, communities are better equipped to recover, prepare, and support one another.
CARE COORDINATION Our trauma-informed team walks with neighbors across WNC to connect them with reliable help. Reach out for assistance, or let us help your organization capture needs and link people to care.
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We believe recovery is strongest when it is rooted in relationships, shared learning, and local leadership. This digest was created for communities recovering from disaster, future leaders who will carry this work forward, and neighbors receiving preparedness resources so they have not only supplies, but also the information and connections needed for what lies ahead. Response works best when relationships lead and operations follow. Preparedness is not only about plans and supplies— it is about people, trust, and partnerships built long before disaster strikes.
Take heart, Erin Burleson & the Faith360 Regional Network Team
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 Disaster Overview 6 Disaster Eco System 10 Preparedness Pallet 18 Pathways to Preparedness 22 Faith & Disaster Partners 26 County Directory 32 Quick Reference Glossary FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 3
WELCOME
We welcome your feedback, insight, and partnership as we continue this work. Our hope is simple: that you find connection, direction, and a place to begin again.
WHAT IS A DISASTER?
What is a Regional Disaster? A REGIONAL DISASTER is a largescale event that exceeds the capability of local and regional governments to respond effectively using their own resources and requires supplemental state and/or federal assistance. The impact extends beyond a single community and disrupts critical lifelines and systems, including Housing, Healthcare and public health systems, Transportation networks, Utilities (power, water, communications), Schools, businesses, and community services. Recovery is not immediate; it requires coordinated long-term response and recovery operations. REGIONAL DISASTERS MAY BE: • Natural hazards hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tornado outbreaks • Human-caused incidents major infrastructure failures, industrial accidents • Public health emergencies pandemics, widespread contamination events • Slow-onset events drought, prolonged economic disruption, housing instability 4 FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026
CYCLE OF DISASTER RESPONSE Immediate action to protect lives, meet urgent needs, and support communities during and after a disaster. RECOVERY Long-term efforts to restore homes, infrastructure, and hope as communities rebuild and heal together. MITIGATION Proactive steps taken before disaster strikes to reduce risks, lessen impacts, and strengthen community resilience. PREPAREDNESS Planning, training, and organizing people and resources ahead of time for an effective response to emergencies.
What is a Regional Emergency?
Under FEMA and state emergency management frameworks, emergencies require organized response and coordination, but do not typically exceed the capacity threshold that triggers disasterlevel state or federal assistance.
REGIONAL EMERGENCIES MAY INVOLVE: • Severe weather affecting multiple counties with manageable impacts • Regional transportation or infrastructure disruptions • Coordinated public safety incidents • Events requiring mutual aid between counties but not longterm recovery programs • Systems may be strained, but remain functional and operational under coordinated response structures (local Emergency Operations Centers, mutual aid agreements, and state coordination support).
Key Difference (FEMA / NCEM-Aligned) REGIONAL DISASTER
REGIONAL EMERGENCY
> Exceeds local and regional response capacity
> Managed under local/state coordinated response systems
> Requires state and/or federal assistance (FEMA involvement)
> Mutual aid and regional coordination sufficient
> Critical systems are disrupted or fail
> Systems remain functional
> Requires response + long-term recovery operations
> Focus is response and stabilization > No or limited disaster declaration
> Often results in state and/or federal disaster declaration
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DISASTERS VS. EMERGENCY
A REGIONAL EMERGENCY is a significant incident that requires coordinated response across multiple jurisdictions but is still within the capability of local and regional governments, often with mutual aid support, to manage.
DISASTER ECO SYSTEM
FEDERAL LEVEL FEMA:
Federal Disaster Declarations National Response Coordination Public Assistance & Funding
Resources & Technical Support
NATIONAL & STATEWIDE COORDINATION NETWORKS NATIONAL VOAD
Connects Nonprofits, Faith-Based Organizations & Government Partners Promotes the 4 C’s: › Communication › Coordination
› Collaboration
› Cooperation
Shares Information & Best Practices Reduces Duplication & Strengthens Response
NC VOAD Coordinates Disaster Response Across N.C. Connects Local Partners with State & National Resources Supports Information Sharing & Resource Management Strengthens Statewide Collaboration
Why Register with NC VOAD? NC VOAD helps faith-based organizations, nonprofits, community organizations, and other disaster-serving partners coordinate disaster response, share resources, and strengthen recovery efforts across North Carolina. Who should register? Any organization involved in disaster
preparedness, response, recovery, or mitigation—including houses of worship, nonprofits, volunteer groups, community organizations, and agencies that serve affected populations. Registering connects your organization to trusted communication channels, trainings, partnerships, and statewide recovery coordination, helping you work more effectively before, during, and after disasters.
Register your organization: Visit the NC VOAD registration page at www.NCVOAD.org to learn more and complete the registration process. Need more info? Download the long term recovery guide. 6 FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026
Working Together. Restoring Communities. Building Hope. A connected network of partners in preparedness, response & long-term recovery.
STATE & LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERS State Government: › State Emergency Management Agency › Coordinate State Response Operations › Mange State Resources & Assets › Administer State Funding Programs › Support Local Government & Communities › Policy, Planning & Mitigations Leadership
Local Government: › Local Emergency Management › Public Safety (Fire, EMS, Law Enforcement) › Shelter, Evacuation & Public Information › Infrastructure Protection & Recovery › Debris Management & Public Works › Support to Local Recovery Efforts & LTRGs FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 7
DISASTER ECO SYSTEM
The Disaster Eco System
DISASTER ECO SYSTEM
LOCAL PARTNERS ON THE GROUND & FOR THE LONG HAUL Nonprofit Organizations:
• Provide Immediate Relief (Food, Shelter, Supplies) • Case Management & Recovery Services • Fill Gaps & Walk Alongside Communities
Faith-Based Organizations:
• Mobilize Volunteers • Provide Spiritual & Emotional Care • Long-Term Presence & Rebuilding Support
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Local Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTRGS): • Community-Led Recovery Hubs • Manage Casework & Un-met Needs • Coordinate Resources & Rebuilding Efforts • Bridge from Relief to Long-Term Restoration • Provide Resources, Expertise & Donations • Support Workforce Recovery • Invest in Community Resilence & Rebuilding
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DISASTER ECO SYSTEM
Businesses & Community Partners:
QUICK ACTION
Readiness Resources FEMA Ready: Household preparedness checklists, emergency plans, and evacuation guidance. www.Ready.gov American Red Cross: Emergency kits, shelters, family reunification, and disaster preparedness resources. www.RedCross.org/Get-Help/How-To-Prepare- For-Emergencies.html
NC Emergency Management: Official state disaster guidance, planning resources, and emergency coordination. www.NCDPS.gov/ Our-Organization/Emergency-Management
ReadyNC: Real-time alerts, shelters, evacuation information, and preparedness updates for North Carolina. www.ReadyNC.gov
Discourse is an online hub for the Faith360 network member to connect, share resources, aske questions, and collaborate in real time.
• Collaborate on projects & volunteers
WHY JOIN?
• Ask questions & get answers
• Celebrate our wins and successes • Stay updated on Disaster Recovery news • Join discussions in a safe, organized space
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• Connect across topics & counties • Share resources & best practices • Find & share events
SCAN HERE TO JOIN
Resource Distribution
SCAN
for our supply request form
Need to re-route an influx of donations? SCAN to schedule drop offs
FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 11
PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
Faith360 coordinates disaster supply distribution through our 63,000-square-foot warehouse, providing enrolled partners with resources tailored to the changing needs of each phase of disaster.
Confirm Activation Intent Prepare Your Facility
Prepare Administrative Materials Establish Communications
Unpack Your Preparedness Place Signage for Pallet/Materials Operation & Open Establish Your Site Staging
Volunteer Coordination, Administration & Accountability Volunteer 3-Ring Binder - 1 Clipboards - 10 Min. COORDINATION
QUICK ACTION
Quick Activation Checklist
Name Tags (Stick On) - 1 Pack Voulunteer Orientation Quick Guide - 1 Incident Report Forms - 10 Donation Intake Forms Inventory Tracking Sheets Volunteer Hour Logs Waterproof/Fire-Resistant Document Case - 1
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Preparedness Pallet Checklist
Complete each item to fully activate your site.
D ual band VHF/UHF HAM mobile radio 2nd option pg 13 R adio power supply or battery adapter After power is established: Starlink satellite internet kit pg 17 Starlink mounting hardware Laminated Starlink mounting instructions Laminated troubleshooting guide L arge scale water purifier (Safer Cleaner Water Bucket)
WATER PURIFICATION & SANITATION
H andwashing & Hygiene Kit: 5 gallon water container with spigot Liquid hand soap Paper towels Small catch bucket for wastewater Hand sanitizer T oilet paper B uckets B leach/Lysol/Industrial Disinfectant/Wipes P ersonal wipes
SITE SETUP & OPERATIONS
GMRS radios 1st option pg 18
Bungee cords Duct tape Zip ties Traffic cones H eavy duty trash bags (300 bags) 2 7 Gallon Heavy-Duty Storage Bin
ADMIN. & ACCOUNTABILITY
B atteries (AA, AAA, D, C & 9 Volt mixed)
R ope 3/8” braided polypropylene rope (250ft = 1 spool)
V olunteer 3-ring binder (Activation Toolkit)
FOOD & COMFORT
Headlamps/Flashlights
MRE cases
( Command Center – Laminated Signage ) Clipboards (minimum 10) Name tags (stick-on tags)
Water cases D isposable plates, cups, and silverware Blankets/Sleeping bags Camper stove Large first aid kits
FIRST AID
Extension cords (heavy duty)
CARE, CALM & TRAUMA
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS & SECONDARY CONNECTIVITIY
Fuel container with funnel
Tarps
PPE gloves (S, M, L, XL) PPE masks M ental Health and Care Coordination Resource Cards C alming Kits (comfort items, story/scripture cards) Kids in Disaster Book Spiritual First Aid resources FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 13
PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
POWER & LIGHTING
P ortable generator (5kW-8kW) pg 14
Power & Lighting
Provides temporary electrical power for essential devices during outages, including refrigerators, lights, medical equipment, and charging stations.
20’
> Never use indoors, in garages, or enclosed spaces due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. > Use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use and the generator’s power output.
SAFETY
> Always operate outdoors at least 20 feet from buildings, doors, and windows.
> Check oil levels before operation and change oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. > Test-run the generator periodically to ensure it starts and operates properly. > Keep fuel fresh and stored safely in approved containers.
FEMA Power Outage & Generator Safety:
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MAINTENANCE
> Please check your generator’s manufacturer and wattage for specific guidance.
RESOURCES
PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
5KW GENERATOR
20-POUND PROPANE CYLINDER Power & Lighting
> Inspect cylinders regularly for rust, dents or damage. > Monitor fuel levels and refill as needed. > Ensure valves and protective caps remain in good condition.
Propane Safety & Education:
MAINTENANCE
> Never store propane cylinders inside homes or occupied buildings.
RESOURCES
> Check connections for leaks before use using soapy water.
SAFETY
> Store cylinders upright outdoors in a well- ventilated area away from heat sources.
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PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
20-Pound Propane Cylinder stores fuel for approved equipment such as generators, heaters, and cooking devices during emergencies.
Water & Wash
> Store treated water in clean, food-grade containers. > Follow manufacturer instructions to ensure proper filtration.
> Inspect filters, hoses, and components at least twice yearly. > Replace filter elements according to manufacturer guidelines. > Clean and dry the system before long-term storage.
Safer Water
Water Mission Resource
Water Flitration
Mini Filter Products
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MAINTENANCE
> Use the cleanest source water available whenever possible.
SAFETY
Water Mission 5-Gallon Filtration Bucket produces safe drinking water from available sources when normal water systems are disrupted or contaminated.
RESOURCES
PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
WATER FILTRATION
SATELLITE INTERNET Logistical
> Protect equipment from standing water and severe weather when possible.
> Test the system at least twice yearly to confirm operation. > Keep software updated to ensure optimal performance and security.
Starlink Help Center
RESOURCES
> Inspect cables and mounting hardware for wear or damage.
SAFETY
> Secure cables and equipment to prevent damage or tripping hazards.
MAINTENANCE
> Install the dish in an open area with a clear view of the sky for best performance.
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PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
Starlink Satellite Internet Kit restores internet connectivity when traditional communications infrastructure is unavailable, helping communities coordinate response and access information.
Communication
GMRS Radios: Best for families and local groups. An FCC license is required, but no exam is needed. Reliable for neighborhood communication during emergencies.
> Use clear radio procedures to reduce confusion during incidents. > Protect radios from moisture, dust and physical damage.
> Charge and test batteries regularly. > Verify accessories such as microphones and antennas are functioning properly. > Conduct periodic communication checks with partner organizations.
GMRS Learning Center
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Find Repeaters
MAINTENANCE
> Follow established channel plans and FCC licensing requirements.
SAFETY
Ham Radios: Best for emergency volunteers and community response. An FCC license requires passing an exam, but ham radios provide greater range and can communicate through emergency radio networks when other systems fail.
RESOURCES
PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
GMRS RADIOS
WNC RADIO CLUBS County Contact Info
SBurgiss@yahoo.com 865.659.3035
Facebook.com/groups/ 171200686596893
Ashe County ARC, Inc.
AsheCountyARC@gmail.com
www.W4YSB.org
BUNCOMBE
WCARS
RTSP71@aol.com 828.298.6685
www.WCARS-Club.org
BUNCOMBE
The Road Show ARC
N4OOC@ARRL.net 828.243.0888
www.RoadshowARC.org
BURKE
Western Piedmont ARC
Ki4GZD@hotmail.com 828.850.4398
www.WPARC.com
CALDWELL
Lenoir ARC
President@N4LNR.com
www.N4LNR.org
CHEROKEE
Appalachia ARC
Info@Appalachia ARC.org
www.AppalachiaARC.org
HAYWOOD
Haywood County ARC
864.304.8527
FB: @HCARC
Blue Ridge ARC
BRARC.W4YK@gmail.com 828.489.6637
www.RadioClub.org
JCARS
W3WDD@ARRL.net
www.JCars.club
Franklin ARC
828.524.1358
www.KF4RC.org
HAMARS
Questions@HamARS.club
www.HamARS.club
MCDOWELL
McDowell ARA
W4Hog28752@gmail.com
www.4Hog.net
MITCHELL
Mayland ARC
JoeMiller505@icloud.com 828.467.1629
www.KK4MAR.org
Thermal Belt ARC
Thermalbelt250@gmail.com 864.978.1347
www.TBARC.org
Isothermal ARC
BooBoosPerson@yahoo.com 828.289.2034
https://www.ARRL.org/ Groups/View/IsothermalAmateur-Radio-Club/ Type:Club
WATAUGA
Watauga ARC
K2SD@ARRL.net 828.964.6626
www.WataugaHamRadio.net
WILKES
Foothills ARC
Treasurer@FoothillsARC.org 919.437.0091
www.FoothillsARC.org
ASHE
HENDERSON JACKSON MACON MADISON
POLK
RUTHERFORD
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PREPAREDNESS PALLET GUIDE
Sparta ARC (SPARC)
ALLEGHANY
PATHWAYS TO PREPAREDNESS
Pathways to Preparedness Program A peer-led, educational eco system for equipping churches and community partners to grow readiness, strengthen community relationships, and lead faithfully before, during and after disasters. • Asset-Based • Peer-Led • Contextually Relevant • Empowerment-Oriented • Faith-Informed
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Learning Streams The way people learn along 5 Pathways to Preperedness. Multiple ways to learn. Many ways to contribute. Stronger together. CONNECT
INCREMENTAL GROWTH. INCREASING IMPACT. 1. S KILL SHARE Learn essential approaches, tools, and basics from practitioners and peers. Ex. Lunch-and-learns, demos, case studies, peer-led workshops, ministry showcases
2. WORKSHOP Develop specific skills, plans, or capabilities through facilitated learning. Ex. Emergency planning workshops, resource mapping, volunteer management training, communications planning
3. PRACTICE Apply learning through exercises, assessments, and real-world scenarios. Ex. Tabletop exercises, simulations, site assessments, readiness reviews, community drills
4. TRAINING Participate in structured learning designed to build competency in a specific area. Ex. Disaster response training, incident management courses, trauma-informed care training, volunteer coordination training
5. CERTIFICATION Complete recognized training that results in a credential or certification. Ex. CERT, CPR / First Aid, FEMA Independent Studies courses, chainsaw safety, disaster case management credientials
MENTOR Guide, coach, and multiply learning. Ex. Facilitate a pathway session, mentor new participants, host a learning cohort, lead an exercise, develop pathway resources
SCAN HERE To join Faith360’s network as learner, contributor or investor
>> You can start anywhere >> Grow at your own pace. >> Build skills and confidence >> Earn Credentials that matter >> Invest in others FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 21
PATHWAYS TO PREPAREDNESS
Build relationships and discover opportunities. Ex. Networking events, community conversations, panel discussions, story sharing, site visits
Faith360 Network Improving generational outcomes for disaster impacted communities by Celebrating, Coordinating, and Resourcing WNC Organizations at the intersection of Disaster Response, Church Engagement, Community-Led Development.
FAITH 360 NETWORK
DISASTER RESPONSE
COMMUNITY-LED DEVELOPMENT
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CHURCH/MISSIONAL ENGAGEMENT
Faith360 Network
Laura Foreman Network Administrator
Pam Snyder Network Coordinator
Tiffany Dix Community Impact Manager
Alfonso Loli Care Coordinator
Dorren Garris Network Coordinator
Gillian Danze Network Coordinator
Court Greene Network Coordinator
VOLUNTEER MOBILIZATION Faith360 connects voulunteers to projects, tracks impact, and equips groups to respond safely and effectively. FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 23
FAITH 360 NETWORK
Rev. Erin Burleson Program Director
NETWORK PARTNERS
Network Partners Since Hurricane Helene, hundreds of partners have coordinated their efforts through the network. The organizations featured here represent just a sampling of the many trusted partners who stand ready to serve alongside you. Want to add yours? Email Faith360@abccm.org
• • • •
Household Recovery Spiritual & Mental Health Support Unmet Needs Resiliency & Preparedness Education
Contact: 828.225.6656 Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:30AM - 4:30 PM Friday: 8:30AM - 3:00PM
•
Preparedness Education
•
Private Bridges
•
Volunteer Support & Project Coordination
Contact: 704.633.4861
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Contact: 855.962.8387 (NC Serves) https://ABCCM-VSC.org/Request-Assistance/
Disaster Ministries continues a season of tremendous growth, response, and renewed commitment to longterm recovery. The work across the Western North Carolina conference was marked by increased capacity, strengthened connections, and a deepened call to be the caring Christian presence to our neighbors in need during the most challenging moments. Contact: 980.354.4157 Volunteer Opportunities: www.WNCCUMC.org/WNCC-VIM
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NETWORK PARTNERS
The PATH Program helps Veterans and civilians experiencing homelessness who have severe mental health or co-occurring disorders. Services include street outreach, peer support, and therapeutic assistance to help individuals access housing, treatment, and community resources.
NETWORK PARTNERS
Baptists on Mission exists to glorify God by involving churches and Christians in meeting human needs in Jesus’ name. Our largest of these ministries are: Disaster Response, State/National/International projects, Mission Camps/ Rebuild Centers, Deep Impact/DI Kids & Medical/Dental ministries. Contact: 800.395.5102 ext. 5596 Ways to Serve: https://BaptistsOnMission.org/MissionProjects/By-Mission-Type/Disaster-Relief
We serve those who are poor and vulnerable in the Diocese of Charlotte. Our services are available to all of God’s people regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, religious affiliation, or economic/social background. Through our services, we seek to strengthen families, build communities, and reduce poverty. Contact: 888.892.1162
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Contact: 919.828.6501
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance enables congregations and mission partners of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to witness to the healing love of Christ through caring for communities adversely affected by crises and catastrophic events. Contact: 800.728.7228 Volunteer Opportunities: https://PCUSA.org/Disaster-Assistance/How-Help/Act
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NETWORK PARTNERS
We believe that when faith communities are educated about the realities of behavioral health and its deep connection to our spiritual lives, equipped with practical tools and compassionate understanding, and mobilized to build and advocate for systems that promote wholeness, they become powerful agents of healing, resilience, and justice.
FAITH360 NETWORK COORDINATORS
Faith360 Network Coordinators
Pam Snyder Pamela.Snyder@ABCCM.org ALLEGHANY
Doreen Garris Doreen.Garris@ABCCM.org
ASHE AVERY BUNCOMBE
BUNCOMBE
MITCHELL
BURKE
WATAUGA
CALDWELL
YANCEY
MADISON MCDOWELL WILKES
Court Greene Court.Greene@ABCCM.org
Gillian Danze Gillian.Danze@ABCCM.org BUNCOMBE
BUNCOMBE
HENDERSON
CLAY
RUTHERFORD
CHEROKEE
POLK
GRAHAM
TRANSYLVANIA
HAYWOOD JACKSON MACON SWAIN 28 FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026
County Quick Guide WHO WE ARE:
> Unmet needs case management > Construction and rebuild > Volunteer coordination, donations and resources CONTACT: Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce | www.ACLTRG.org/ 58 S. Main St, Sparta, NC | 336.372.5473 GET INVOLVED: Volunteer your time, donate materials, or partner with us. Together we help neighbors rebuild homes, restore livelihoods and strengthen community’s resilience for the long haul.
WHO WE ARE:
Through grants, resources, and partnerships, we help neighbors recover and thrive — today and for generations to come. If You Need Assistance, Please Call the NC Disaster Case Management Line: 828-387-5269 SERVICES OFFERED: > Housing Assistance > Legal/ Financial Guidance > Critical Supplies Help Coping Your generous donation helps us provide critical support to families and individuals recovering from disaster in Avery County. CONTACT: 828.387.5269 | DCM@AveryLTRG.org FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 29
AVERY COUNTY
Avery County Long Term Recovery Group strengthens the people and places that make our community special.
COUNTY QUICK GUIDE
SERVICES OFFERED:
ALLEGHANY COUNTY
The mission of the Alleghany County Long-Term Recovery Group is to meet the needs of all individuals, families and businesses affected by disasters in Alleghany County by strengthening communication, coordination and collaboration while providing long-term recovery services with compassion, integrity and engagement.
HENDERSON COUNTY
COUNTY QUICK GUIDE
BUNCOMBE COUNTY
WHO WE ARE: The Buncombe County Long Term Recovery Group is a coalition of local nonprofits, faithbased organizations, government agencies and volunteers united to coordinate countywide disaster recovery through intentional collaboration. WHAT WE DO: Our efforts are guided by a commitment to community resilience, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most. The Buncombe County LTRG works to ensure that everyone has what they need in disaster recover based on their unique circumstances. We recognize historic inequities as well as emerging vulnerabilities that result from disasters. We aim to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate resources to reduce disparities and support resilience among communities disproportionately impacted by disaster. CONTACT: 828.239.1154 | www.HandsOnAsheville.org/Agency
WHO WE ARE: The United Way of Henderson County serves as the fiscal sponsor for the Disaster Recovery Partnership (DRP) of Henderson County. The DRP connects more that 50 agencies working corroboratively to address the Helene recover needs that our community continues to face. Residents who still have unmet needs as a result of Helene are welcome to complete a Disaster Recovery Assistance request and a case manager will reach out to help you connect with resources. MISSION STATEMENT Our mission is to unite and empower Henderson County communities in the face of disasters by promoting effective information sharing simplifying access to critical resources for individuals and families and corroboratively addressing unmet needs. VISION STATEMENT Our vision is a resilient, untied community equipped to overcome adversity and prepared to face future challenges with confidence an solidarity. CONTACT: 828.692.1636 | www.HCDRP.org
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WHO WE ARE:
SERVICES OFFERED: > Home Rebuilds > Vehicle Replacement > Land Re-Grading RELIEF REQUEST: www. JotForm.com/24306165052044 CONTACT: 828.668.7793 | www.CampGrier.org
WHO WE ARE:
We offer free and confidential case management to connect community members with recovery resources and support, including: • Home repair assistance • Driveway and private bridge repairs • Debris removal & cleanup support
• Food insecurity assistance
• Emotional and spiritual wellness support • Guidance with FEMA & other applications • General recovery navigation & support
CONTACT: Adam Gortney, Case Manager Adam.MCLTRG@gmail.com TO DONATE OR VOLUNTEER: 410 South Mitchell Ave. Bakersville, NC 28705 EMAIL: VolunteerMitchell@gmail.com PHONE: 828-660-0818 FAITH 360 DISASTER DIGEST 2026 31
MITCHELL COUNTY
A Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG) is a community-led team formed in response to a major disaster. LTRGs bring together local nonprofits, churches, community leaders, volunteers, and government representatives to help individuals and families recover and rebuild. While supported by agencies such as FEMA, LTRGs are led by local people who understand the needs of their community best.
COUNTY QUICK GUIDE
> Mortage Relief
MCDOWELL COUNTY
The Old Fort Long Term Recovery Group is the disaster recovery sector of the nin-profit Camp Grier. For close to two years the Old Fort LTRG has provided community wide disaster relief such as home rebuilds, vehicle replacement, mortage relief and land re-grading.
Rutherford Long Term Recovery Group
SMOKEY MOUNTAIN
COUNTY QUICK GUIDE
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
WHO WE ARE: Rebuilding Lives. Restoring Hope. Building Resilience. SERVICES OFFERED: > Home repair assistance > Driveway & Private Bridges > Debris removal & clean up > Food insecurity support
> Guidance with FEMA & other applications > Help navigating recovery challenges
WANT TO GET INVOLVED? > Attend a meeting > Volunteer > Join a committee> Donate
> Are you apart of a nonprofit, church, or local organization, if so partner with us.
CONTACT: 828.716.9662 | www.RutherfordLTRG.org info@RutherfordLTRG.org
WHO WE ARE: Active since Tropical Storm Fred, and still working to assist those affected by Helene, SMLTRG exists to bring people the resources they need. Together with their community and broader partners, case managers are actively seeking those who have been over-looked, and advocating for those still in need. SERVICES OFFERED: > Housing assistance > Mental Health > Food Availability > Other Common Needs > Serving Haywood and Jackson Counties CONTACT: www.SMLTRG.org
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FWRD Transylvania is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide coordinated recovery support to residents after a disaster, prepare for future events, and build community resilience. If you or someone you know is still experiencing unmet needs due to Hurricane Helene, please reach out to us today. We’re here to help connect residents with the resources and support needed to move recovery forward. PARTNER WITH US: Joyce@gofwrd.org. | www.GoFWRD.org
WHO WE ARE: Helping Families Recover. Rebuilding Homes. Restoring Hope.
LTRG works closely with trusted partners to address long-term ecovery needs and help restore stability for families in our mountain communities. SERVICES PROVIDED: • Case Management • Temporary Housing Assistance • Unmet Needs Coordination • Well and Water Issues • Road and Bridge Access Support If you wish to volunteer, donate, or NEED HELP recovering contact Yancey County LTRG. CONTACT: 715 East Main Street, Burnsville, NC 28714 | 828.222.4120 www.YanceyLTRG.org SERVING: Yancey County’s Mountainous Communities
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YANCEY COUNTY
The Yancey County Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) brings together local organizations, churches, volunteers, nd community partners to help individuals and families recover from disasterrelated damage.
COUNTY QUICK GUIDE
CONTACT Mick@gofwrd.org | 828.458.6278.
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY
WHO WE ARE:
QUICK REFERENCE GLOSSARY
Quick Reference Glossary Activation: Mobilizing people, equipment, and resources in response to an incident.
Damage Assessment: Evaluating disaster impacts on homes and infrastructure.
After-Action Review (AAR): Evaluation of response efforts to identify lessons learned.
Disaster Case Management (DCM): A structured process to help survivors achieve recovery goals.
Blue Skies: The phase after immediate response when long-term recovery begins. Businesses: Support recovery through funding, supplies, skilled labor, and economic stability.
Emergency Operations Center (EOC): Centralized location for coordinating response. Faith-Based Organization (FBO): Religious organization providing disaster services.
Care Coordination: Connecting people with resources and services to support recovery.
Faith Communities: Mobilize volunteers, provide care, and sustain long-term recovery efforts.
Case Closure: Completion of recovery assistance after goals are met. Case Management: Helping survivors assess needs and create recovery plans.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Provides federal disaster assistance, funding, and coordination after major disasters.
Community Lifelines: Critical systems such as power, water, healthcare, and communications.
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS): Radio communications used when cell service fails.
Congregate Care: Temporary sheltering and support for displaced individuals.
Hazard Mitigation: Actions to reduce future disaster risk.
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Host Site: Location supporting volunteers or teams.
Preparedness: Actions taken before disasters to build readiness.
Long Term Recovery Group (LTRGs): Local coalitions that coordinate long-term recovery and address survivors’ unmet needs.
Preparedness Pallet: Supplies and equipment supporting disaster readiness.
Mutual Aid: Sharing resources across organizations or jurisdictions. National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD): A national network of organizations that collaborate to improve disaster response and recovery. Nonprofits: Deliver essential services such as case management, rebuilding, and financial assistance. North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NC VOAD): Connects North Carolina organizations engaged in disaster response and long-term recovery.
Recovery: Restoring community functions after a disaster. Recovery Hub: Location coordinating recovery resources and services. Recovery Pathway: A structured route toward long-term recovery. Regional Emergency requires coordinated response across multiple jurisdictions but can generally be managed using local and state resources. Regional Disaster exceeds local capacity, disrupts critical systems, and often requires state or federal assistance for long-term recovery.
Points of Distribution (POD): Locations where emergency supplies are distributed.
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QUICK REFERENCE GLOSSARY
Incident Command System (ICS): Standardized system for managing emergencies.
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