Duke Energy has announced the allocation of $500,000 to assist in the recovery efforts in western North Carolina after the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. This funding will be dispersed as $25,000 grants to 20 local nonprofits, each focusing on long-term recovery efforts in the region. The grants aim to support initiatives such as home rebuilding, debris removal, mental health services, and the rehabilitation of waterways.
Among the recipients, the Mountain Strong Yancey and Mitchell County Relief Team will utilize the support to repair infrastructure affected by the storm. "This support will have a direct and meaningful impact on our community, allowing us to repair critical access ways and back roads that serve multiple families and connect residents to essential locations including grocery stores, schools, and medical clinics,” stated Carol Tyler, the group’s president.
Another organization, Asheville-based GreenWorks, focuses on aiding property owners who do not meet the criteria for traditional disaster assistance with flood debris removal. "Many property owners who still need help with flood debris removal do not have the resources needed to clean up their properties," said Eric Bradford, director of operations. "Duke Energy’s support will help fill that gap and meet the needs of many residents who suffered damage from Hurricane Helene."
Duke Energy remains committed to rebuilding infrastructure, protecting grid reliability, and assisting in community recovery. "In the face of Helene’s historic damage, we have been in awe of the resilience and teamwork of our mountain communities," expressed Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. Bowman also highlighted the ongoing work to reinforce the electric grid in the area.
The Duke Energy Foundation supports communities with over $30 million annually and is funded by Duke Energy shareholders. Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, serves millions of customers across several states and prioritizes customer reliability and value in its energy transition strategy. More information can be found at duke-energy.com.