People stocking up on supplies to send to mountain communities impacted by Helene

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — People across the Carolinas are buying the essentials to send to people in western North Carolina.

On Tuesday, our crews watched person after person come out of the Costco on Tyvola Road, shopping carts piled high with supplies to take to the mountains. While many people we talked with didn’t want the story to be about them, Queen City News did meet one couple who traveled to Charlotte from Black Mountain to help their friends and neighbors.

“Individual people may be okay,” said Breanna Crenshaw. “But western North Carolina is not okay.”

For Breanna and Richard Crenshaw, the cause is personal.

“It’s our community,” said Breanna.

The couple made the trek from Black Mountain to Charlotte, driving through the towns they love, which are now leveled by flood waters.

“I cried,” said Breanna. “There was a bit of crying. It was scary.”

They had one goal once they got the Charlotte Costco – gather essentials for their friends and neighbors.

“We just went through and said I think I would want this,” said Richard.

With spotty cell service, it’s hard to know exactly what people need, so they have various items they hope will help.

“Batteries, baby wipes,” said Breanna. “Instant coffee because I was so excited when I got to have coffee and plates, paper plates.”

They packed the car full and have plans to head back up the mountain on Wednesday, knowing it’s a long road back and a long road to recovery for the mountain communities.

“I just hope people remember in a month there’s going to be a lot of people like it’s going to be old news, but just the suffering is still going to be there,” said Richard.

If you’re interested in helping people affected by Helene, click here to find information on how to donate money and supplies .

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