North Carolina Enhances Support for Families Affected by Hurricane Helene
In a significant move to bolster recovery efforts for regions impacted by Hurricane Helene, North Carolina’s leadership, including Governor Josh Stein, has unveiled an expanded investment aimed at supporting children and families. This initiative, a part of the ongoing WNC Thrive program, channels $3.75 million into resources such as free after-school activities, weekend retreats, and summer camps designed to aid mental health recovery.
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the initiative’s dual benefits, stating, “This partnership is giving children and families a reprieve from the devastation Hurricane Helene left behind. Not only are children getting to make new friends, but they are also receiving mental health care to help them heal from this traumatic event.”
NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai echoed this sentiment, highlighting the long-term nature of disaster recovery by saying, “There is no right or wrong way to feel during a disaster, and the impacts of such devastation can stay with us for years to come. We are committed to increasing access to care and resources for those impacted the most by Hurricane Helene, right now and for the long haul.”
The additional funding includes $2 million allocated to Trillium Health Resources to facilitate weekend and summer events at Henry’s House at Victory Junction in Randleman, N.C. Founded by former NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, the camp provides adaptive programs for children with complex medical needs at no cost.
Matt Calabria, Director of the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC), expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts, stating, “We are proud to collaborate with DHHS to provide additional out-of-school resources to recovering families. This program will be a lifeline for parents and children who are still healing from Helene.”
Previously, $1.75 million was allocated to Vaya Health to expand the reach of WNC Thrive programs. The initiative has already seen participation from over 1,000 youth in summer camps across 22 impacted counties, providing a safe space for healing and community engagement. Learn more about eligibility and participation here.
Additional Recovery Efforts
Beyond WNC Thrive, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has launched and supported various other programs:
- Expanded funding for MORES teams offering crisis intervention for children and adolescents aged 3-21.
- New co-responder units in Clay and Cherokee counties, pairing law enforcement with mental health professionals.
- Up to six Mobile Opioid Treatment Programs in western North Carolina.
- Support for veterans through transitional housing, employment, and mental health/substance use services.
- Continued support for the North Carolina Psychiatric Access Line (NC PAL).
- Development of the Hope4NC helpline for those experiencing mental health crises.
- Partnership with Vaya Health for weekly connection and learning opportunities via Resources for Resilience.
For those struggling with mental health or substance use issues, support is readily available through the North Carolina Crisis Services Website. Additional resources include the 988 crisis hotline, offering confidential support 24/7, and the NCDHHS Peer Warmline at 1-855-PEERS NC (855-733-7762) for peer-to-peer assistance.
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