Before we dive into our September newsletter, I want to take a moment to reflect on the tragic impact Helene has had on our state in recent days. From the widespread devastation in the mountains to the damage caused by tornadoes and fallen trees in Rocky Mount and other regions of the state, the impacts of this storm will be felt for months and years to come.
Our team at IEI is feeling this deeply. Being part of a land-grant university serving all 100 counties, we have colleagues, program partners, community cohort members, friends and family who are directly impacted by the storm. As we are able to check in with our colleagues and loved ones, it is clear that the sense of grit, resilience and determination that western North Carolina is known for can never be diminished. We are seeing people come together from both outside the community and within to provide much needed supplies, services and resources. It is only the beginning, but the spirit of working together across sectors, regions and backgrounds is what will bring us through this tragedy.
What happened with Helene is another example of how vital infrastructure is to our day-to-day lives. Communities are without cell service, power and water. Portions of roads are washed away and access to health care and food are cut off in many areas. Of course, this makes me think even more about the importance of our upcoming forum series on North Carolina’s infrastructure. When we started planning our 2025 forum on energy and the larger forum series, we knew that this would be an important topic for all of North Carolina. This storm has brought that to the forefront. We are committed to using this platform to bring North Carolinians together to build, strengthen and protect our infrastructure against anything that comes its way, including natural disasters.
There’s a lot of information and resources available for people who want to help. Over the weekend, NC State University Chancellor Woodson sent this comprehensive list, which I’m sharing below:
- North Carolina Department of Public Safety: Answers questions about Hurricane Helene, including what to do if you cannot reach a loved one, need emergency rescue or want to track the situation in your area.
- American Red Cross: Offers disaster relief and support services.
- Disaster Assistance: Helps with housing, food and financial relief.
- Disaster Distress Helpline: Those dealing with the impacts of the hurricane can call 1-800-985-5990 for emotional support.
- Shelters: Find nearby shelters and other forms of emergency housing.
- Live Traffic Updates and Road Conditions: Check current conditions before traveling.
- North Carolina Emergency Management: Tracks local responses to the hurricane.
- Power Outages: Information on local outages and restoration times.
In closing, on behalf of our team at IEI, I want to reiterate our support for all who have been impacted by Helene. Our heads will remain in the work ahead to strengthen our communities, but our hearts will always be with you.
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