Out of our suffering we have witnessed the generosity of people across our state and nation who have given so much to help us respond and recover. At a time when we have seen the worst, the best of humanity has come to our rescue.

The morning after the storm hit, we witnessed neighbors helping neighbors, first responders and others taking heroic steps to save lives. At least three first responders gave their life while trying to save others. We needed help far beyond what civilian resources were available, and while help never arrives as quickly as you want, when help did arrive, the sound of helicopters was constant.

“We thank everyone who has contributed to our comeback, and when you can, visit Western North Carolina so we can share our appreciation.”

After five months, WNC has made incredible progress, and each day life is generally better. Many communities are back on their feet, opening doors to visitors once more (see Come for a visit, stay for while). If you’re considering a visit to the mountains, your support of local businesses means more now than ever.

The crater created by Helene is deep and wide. Businesses dependent on tourism have been especially hard-hit, as visitors have yet to return to WNC in numbers comparable to normal times. Our region still has the highest unemployment rate in the state after being the lowest in NC prior to Helene. Mitchell County has seen the largest spike in jobless rates, but Buncombe isn’t far behind. More than twice as many people are without a job compared to before the storm. Many other economic indicators are improving, but we are far from normal.

Repairing our infrastructure will take years and billions of dollars. While most roads are now open, the work to rebuild the most damaged highway corridors will require herculean efforts. Our local governments are facing a cash crunch as their recovery expenses are significant, in some cases far beyond their annual budgets, and it may take years to get reimbursed. As a result of these financial challenges, towns and counties have started cutting their operating budgets and instituting hiring freezes among other cost saving measures.

Rebuilding thousands of homes and keeping businesses open isn’t easy. But mountain people have a history of resilience, and we take care of each other. That special bond will see us through the dark days, as recovery isn’t always an upward journey.

We thank everyone who has contributed to our comeback, and when you can, visit Western North Carolina so we can share our appreciation. With continued support from federal and state governments, the faith community, philanthropy and volunteers, brighter days are ahead for Western North Carolina.