09/27/2026
Two years ago today, Hurricane Helene changed communities across western North Carolina.
Those communities are still recovering.
Bounty & Soul in Swannanoa is helping people put healthy food on the table while connecting them with the resources they need to regain stability. Food insecurity remains a challenge across the region, and Bounty & Soul has seen increased demand for its services as the storm’s effects continue to compound other challenges for families.
A grant from NCCF’s Disaster Relief Fund is helping Bounty & Soul meet those needs through food purchases from local farmers, staff who get fresh food into communities, a community health worker who connects residents with additional resources, and programs focused on health and well-being.
“It has been life-changing for us to be able to continue at the pace that we are operating since Helene. Not only in the immediate aftermath, but in this long-term recovery. That is not an easy thing to do and requires money,” said Ali Casparian, Bounty & Soul’s founder and executive director.
So far, NCCF’s Disaster Relief Fund has awarded $22.5 million to support long-term recovery from Helene.
Two years later, western North Carolina still needs our attention. Please continue to support local businesses, nonprofits and the communities that are still rebuilding.
“The work is not over. It’s not over,” Ali said.
Learn more about the Disaster Relief Fund and its impact: nccommunityfoundation.org/helene
📸: Courtesy of Bounty & Soul
