Needs increasing in the mountains as cold weather moves in

BOONE, N.C. — With low temperatures in the mountains and some snowfall expected in the next few days, a pantry meant to help Helene victims is now seeing people in need of all types of help.

In just one hour, Foscoe Home Team Executive Director Sherrye Trice said two conversations had already brought her to tears. One, a woman calling to say she had no running water and no one to help. Another, a family in need with a 9-month-old baby.

“It’s -11 degrees, wind chill faster and there’s tent communities in Foscoe,” Trice said.

These are just two examples of what she says are the many people in need every day, which is why she is working tirelessly for the Foscoe Home Team. The team says it served hundreds of people in just five days last week.

Trice started Foscoe Home Team after Helene. It started with food and grew fast. Now, people can come get food, diapers, hygiene items, blankets, heaters and warm clothing to get through the winter.

“We need warm shoes, we need thick socks, we need sweaters; lined leggings would be great,” Trice said.

They only have a handful of heaters left and three packs of water, according to Trice, and are in need of donations, fast.

“This is the first interview. I’m begging, I’m begging someone to pay attention. I’m begging someone to take this up the chain to someone who has influence and funding,” Trice said.

She says people here are struggling.

“How many people in Foscoe have to live in a hot tent before people pay attention?” Trice said.

The weather could make the struggle even more severe.

“This is constant. There is no running water. There is no heat. Can you help us with our septic? We lost it during the flood. We applied with FEMA, we applied with Renew NC, we are paying our rent. Can you help us?” Trice said.

Distribution and receiving worker Brandi Karlick said the organization has seen hundreds in need just in the last two days.

“It’s not just hurricane relief; it’s life storm when you were originally financially fragile before the storm and then you lost the little bit you have. What is the plan for recovery here?” Trice said.

Any donations can be sent directly to Foscoe Home Team.

Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.