CHEROKEE, N.C. – The Cherokee Preservation Foundation (CPF) is proud to announce grants for ongoing disaster relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. In response to the devastating impact of the storm, CPF has awarded funding to three organizations dedicated to providing critical assistance to affected communities across Western North Carolina.
MANNA FoodBank
MANNA FoodBank, a 501(c)(3) organization and a member of Feeding America, has been a trusted leader in hunger relief since 1983. Serving 16 counties across western North Carolina, MANNA delivers food and hope to individuals and families experiencing hunger.
Despite flooding that severely damaged its primary facility in Asheville, MANNA quickly mobilized to set up a food and water distribution site at the Asheville Farmer’s Market just three days after the storm. The organization also established a donation and supplies drop-off to ensure immediate relief for those in need. MANNA’s unwavering commitment to disaster relief and its 41-year history of supporting the region made it a natural recipient of CPF’s funding.
Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC)
The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina has been a vital resource for nonprofits since 1978, creating and managing charitable funds to support public agencies across 18 counties, including the Qualla Boundary.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, CFWNC activated its Emergency and Disaster Response Fund on September 29 to coordinate regional response and relief efforts. Funds from this initiative ensure frontline nonprofits have the resources they need for immediate aid and sustained recovery. Administrative fees were waived so that all funds would directly support communities in need.
Grant guidelines were issued on Oct. 4, 2024 and the Cherokee Preservation Foundation began reviewing and approving grants the same week. Initially processed daily, grant approvals now occur weekly, maintaining an efficient flow of resources to the organizations on the ground. CPF is proud to support CFWNC’s proven ability to quickly and effectively distribute funds where they are needed most.
BeLoved Asheville
Since 2009, BeLoved Asheville has been a vital part of the community, recognized for its dedication to movement building, human rights advocacy, and inspiring collective action. With over 15 years of experience creating visible change and building relationships, BeLoved has consistently demonstrated its dedication to community well-being.
When Hurricane Helene hit Asheville and surrounding areas, BeLoved was among the first organizations to respond. From organizing donations for delivery or pick-up and preparing free meals, to assessing ongoing community needs, BeLoved has been on the frontlines of relief efforts.
As the region transitions to colder weather, BeLoved assists those displaced by the storm with securing heat and housing. Although rooted in Asheville, the organization has extended its support to surrounding areas impacted by the hurricane. CPF is proud to recognize BeLoved Asheville’s tireless work and commitment to rebuilding the community by providing funds to bolster its efforts.
Supporting Resilience in western North Carolina
“We are deeply inspired by the resilience and commitment of many relief organizations, especially MANNA FoodBank, the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, and BeLoved Asheville,” said Bobby Raines, Executive Director of the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. “Their efforts ensure that communities affected by Hurricane Helene have the resources and support they need to recover and rebuild.”
The Cherokee Preservation Foundation’s contributions reflect its mission to strengthen and uplift communities in Western North Carolina through collaborative and impactful initiatives.
Visit CherokeePreservation.org to learn more, or contact Jenea Taylor (828) 497-5550, jtaylor@cherokeepreservation.org with inquiries.
- Cherokee Preservation Foundation release
