Hurricane Helene unleashed catastrophic destruction across the southern United States in late September, claiming over 200 lives and leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The storm uprooted entire communities, destroyed homes and left countless people in desperate need of critical resources.

The damage was especially pronounced in Asheville, North Carolina, and surrounding areas. In one heartbreaking example, local resident Megan Drye watched as her 7-year-old son and 73-year-old parents were swept away by the flood when the roof of the house they were standing on collapsed.

This is just one of countless stories of lives shattered. In this environment, the Asheville Police Department deployed to help the citizens of their battered community. Fortunately, they didn’t do so alone. 

The Greenville Police Department deployed multiple groups of officers to affected areas to assist with search and rescue and relief initiatives, bringing with them a truck of much-needed donations.

Mooresville P.D. followed suit, deploying three groups of officers to the Asheville area. “We are honored to have deployed two teams of MPD officers to western North Carolina to secure food and water distribution locations, providing needed relief to residents and local law enforcement teams,” the department said on Facebook. “Thank you to all who continue to serve and support our neighbors!”

The Monroe Police Department sent a strike team of five officers to Burnsville, a little over 30 miles away from Asheville. “We are appreciative of their sacrifice and ask that you keep these officers in your thoughts,” the department said on Facebook.

Hillsborough P.D. collected crucial supplies for those affected, filling two box trucks full of essentials, including water, diapers, paper towels and much more. 

In Leland, dedicated crews traveled over five hours to Buncombe County to assist with donations, provide security and conduct welfare checks to ensure residents were safe and had the supplies they needed. 

“Yesterday, our team checked on 82 residents, distributing critical
resources like gas and water to those in need,” the department said on Facebook. “The area remains challenging to navigate due to washed-out roads, downed trees and power lines, but our crews are pushing through to assist as many people as possible.”

The Pikeville Police Department was also hard at work in Maggie Valley, with officers gearing up and assisting in patrol efforts and answering calls for service, welfare checks, business security, foot patrols and general vehicle patrol until well after midnight on their first night there.

“Prior to our patrol assignment starting at noon, officers took the initiative to check on duty early and assist in supply distribution to those still restricted to their homes due to road washouts and mudslides,” the department said on Facebook. “Navigating those roads was challenging, but the F-150  trucks definitely paid off their purchase. Several places were only accessible utilizing UTV/ATV vehicles. Our officers deployed those resources as well.” 

After a grueling 16-hour shift, Pikeville officers were back at it the following day, delivering
water, food and supplies to several homes throughout the community and speaking with many community members affected by the storm. “After another 16-hour day, our officers witnessed the humanity, camaraderie and willingness to help thy neighbor,” the department said. “The American flag flying in the breeze of the mountain air seemed to be that much more patriotic. It is clear that the faith of the people of these mountains is unwavering, and our officers feel blessed and honored to be a small part of their recovery.”

Aid also came to North Carolina from departments across the country, including in Massachusetts. In a remarkable effort from hundreds of miles away, the West Bridgewater Police Department collected box trucks full of water, Gatorade, clothes, toiletries and nonperishable food items, as well as baby, pet and cleaning supplies.

Even more touching was the fact that the department, along with several local partners, traveled over 700 miles to Raleigh, North Carolina, to personally deliver all the items to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

“This ensured the items were directly distributed to those in need,” the department said. “We are extremely grateful for these far-reaching partnerships, and we wish to thank everyone near and far who has given their time, energy and donations to lend a helping hand to North Carolinians.”