Mountain City Comes Together After Hurricane Helene
Mountain City, Tennessee, has been a hub of resilience and community support since Hurricane Helene swept through the region. The impact of the hurricane has been felt far and wide, leading many residents to face unforeseen challenges. In times like these, the power of community shines through, and nowhere is that more evident than at the local Salvation Army distribution and feeding sites scattered across East Tennessee.
Water Distribution Efforts
One of the most active sites is the Salvation Army Family Store located at 1422 E. Main St. in Johnson City. On Thursday, the team was busy distributing bottled water, a vital resource given reports of water treatment plants facing issues and the prevalence of boil orders in certain areas. “We’ve seen where water treatment plants have been having issues, boil orders and that so we were really quick to try to get water in,” said Major Brooks Gilliam, the Incident Commander for Eastern Tennessee Disaster Response. He noted that while supply might be limited, they were dedicated to ensuring that everyone had access to clean drinking water.
Serving Meals to Those in Need
Over in Mountain City, the Salvation Army is already on an impressive streak, having served approximately 10,000 hot meals since the storm hit. Lieutenant Judah Ervin shared that each visitor to their feeding site carries a unique story of loss and perseverance. “Some people have lost family members…” he remarked. Stories of resilience come from those who may not have suffered physical damage to their homes yet find themselves without essential services like water and electricity.
At the Armory building in Mountain City, support is coming in from far and wide, with a dedicated canteen crew from Danville, Kentucky, stepping in alongside local volunteers. Ellen Watkins, who leads donation efforts, shared just how impactful this collective effort has been. “It has been amazing to watch these men and women work and feed these people and love up on them…” Watkins expressed her appreciation for the tireless workers and volunteers.
What’s Being Distributed
The distribution efforts at the Armory are not just about food. Watkins reported that they are also handing out essential items like diapers, baby formula, personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and even items to combat the cooler evenings, such as heaters, blankets, and coats. The laughter and compassion from the volunteers, many of whom are facing challenges of their own, provide a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity. “I heard so much laughter today, and it just made my heart good to hear that because I love serving people,” Watkins said, emphasizing the strength of community spirit.
Community Resilience in Times of Crisis
These efforts have sparked a sense of pride and unity among East Tennesseans, as they come together to support one another. “East Tennesseans are proud to be East Tennesseans right now,” Ervin remarked, noting the influx of volunteers who have stepped up to help, even after facing their own struggles from the hurricane.
As the distribution efforts continue, the Salvation Army is calling for more assistance. The Armory urgently needs heaters with propane tanks and any volunteers willing to lend a hand. Interested individuals can come to the Armory located at 1923 S. Shady St in Mountain City. Distribution takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but volunteers are also welcome to arrive earlier to assist with organizing donations.
In the coming days, the strength and heart of Mountain City will continue to shine as its residents uplift one another in the spirit of recovery and resilience. With every meal served, every bottle of water distributed, and every act of kindness shared, the community is on a path towards healing together.
