Our Roots - Rising Light Relief

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Rising Light Relief

Rising Light Relief is the heart behind Blue Ridge Rising—a grassroots disaster response effort that began in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene right here in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

What started with hot meals, supply deliveries, and welfare checks has grown into a long-term commitment to care for those most affected by crisis.

While Blue Ridge Rising now carries that mission forward in a permanent space, Rising Light Relief continues to respond to needs across the region—coordinating support, hosting community events, and mobilizing volunteers when it matters most.

The Work of Rising Light Relief

Since the early days after Hurricane Helene, Rising Light Relief has focused on direct, personal, and practical support for those most affected. From daily essentials to moments of connection, we’ve remained committed to showing up—consistently and with care.

Volunteers make a huge difference in recovery

Welfare Checks -
Hot Meal & Supply Delivery

We’ve delivered thousands of hot meals and supplies directly to neighbors in need—especially the elderly, disabled, and isolated. Many of these folks couldn’t reach supply distribution centers, so we brought the essentials to them: food, hygiene items, blankets, and more.

Each delivery offers more than supplies—it’s a moment of connection, a welfare check, and a reminder that no one is forgotten.

Supply Distribution

We operated one of the largest community supply hubs in Mitchell County, distributing thousands of donated goods in the months after the storm. While that operation now continues through Blue Ridge Rising, we remain committed to offering a free food pantry and a tool lending program to support long-term recovery.

Emergency Support

When the need is urgent, we respond quickly. We’ve welcomed community members—even during off hours—to pick up essentials like tarps, heaters, and blankets. During snowstorms and power outages, we’ve delivered propane, generators, and emergency supplies directly to homes. After house fires, we’ve provided critical items like hot tents, wood stoves, cots, sleeping bags, and cookware—whatever it takes to keep folks safe and stable.

Community Rebuilding

With the help of volunteers, we’ve helped muck out homes, clear debris, and restore damaged properties. One major milestone: rebuilding the Toecane church, a vital community gathering space destroyed by flooding. Whether it’s small repairs or full rebuilds, we’ve shown up with tools, teams, and trust.

Coming Together - Meaningful Events

We believe community healing happens in shared spaces. That’s why we host events that bring people together and offer moments of relief, celebration, and connection.

Thanksgiving: 550 hot meals and “smile item” gifts delivered across the region
Christmas: 2,200+ presents distributed to adults and children at a festive community celebration
Spring Seeds of Hope: Over $15,000 in vegetable, herb, and flower seeds, raised beds, canning supplies, tools, and more to help families reclaim land, grow food, and look ahead

Volunteers make a huge difference in recoveryjpeg

Meaningful Volunteer Opportunities for Everyone

Volunteer With Us

Rising Light Relief depends on committed volunteers to keep this mission going. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, there’s a meaningful way to help.

You can deliver meals to neighbors in need—routes are mapped and supplies prepped, though we recommend a high-clearance vehicle. Others join us for full-day volunteer shifts, helping organize supplies, assist with mass deliveries, or support community outreach.

We’re also looking for help with rebuilding projects—clearing debris, making repairs, and helping neighbors return to safe, stable homes.

Prefer something indoors? You’re welcome at the Blue Ridge Rising shop, where tasks like peeling potatoes, washing dishes, and stocking shelves keep our daily operations running. Light-duty roles are available, and those with limited mobility are encouraged to participate.

Learn More About Volunteering

You Can Support Our Mission

Donations have been the bedrock of Rising Light Relief—fueling thousands of hot meals, critical supply runs, and the rebuilding of homes and hope across Western NC. That support will continue to be key as we take the next step through Blue Ridge Rising.

Your gift helps us: