CV NEWS FEED // In the largest humanitarian effort in its history, the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, has united with Catholics across the United States to aid western North Carolina’s recovery from Tropical Storm Helene.
Together, they have raised $3.8 million from all 50 states and six countries.
The Diocese, alongside Catholic Charities, parishes, and schools, has spearheaded an extensive relief effort, providing food, water, and emergency supplies to storm victims, the Catholic News Herald reported.
“Know that the rest of the world is very much with you,” Bishop Michael Martin told the faithful in a homily he recently gave in Waynesville. “There are people all over our diocese, all over our country and all over the world who are reaching out now to let all of you know that you are not alone.”
Just 48 hours after the storm hit, the first truckload of supplies arrived in Hendersonville, launching a larger operation that ultimately delivered 48 box trucks and 16 pickups of essentials to areas including Asheville, Brevard, and Waynesville, the report shared.
As CatholicVote previously reported, with more than half the Diocese “declared FEMA disaster areas,” Bishop Martin announced the creation of a “sister parish” program, an initiative that pairs unaffected parishes with those severely impacted to provide support for at least six months.
According to the Catholic News Herald, the Diocese’s clergy are traveling through storm-stricken areas, delivering supplies, sacraments, and spiritual support to aid both Catholics and non-Catholics. At the same time, they continue to celebrate Mass, aiming to “help people restore the rhythm of their faith life and elevate prayers for people lost and challenges ahead.”
“The stories of outreach to address that devastation have been inspirational,” Bishop Martin said in an email to the Diocese’s 160 priests. “The resurrection is being made real by your willingness to give of yourselves in love of those most in need.”
According to the Catholic News Herald, the Diocese is now changing its focus from providing basic supplies to “rebuilding lives.” Catholic Charities has been instrumental in the rebuilding efforts. It received a $500,000 grant from Catholic Charities USA to bolster its work. Team members travel across the mountain regions, helping families access available government and charitable aid.
Gerry Carter, executive director and CEO of the Diocese’s Catholic Charities agency, pledged to “stand behind” victims in their rebuilding process.
“It’s been overwhelming to learn about the loss of lives, homes, and jobs … [but] our incredible staff continues to work tirelessly to deliver lifesaving supplies and support,” he said.