BCUW Provides Support to Local Farmers and Food Security Programs Following Hurricane

MORGANTON, NC – In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact on Burke County in October 2024, Burke County United Way (BCUW) provided crucial financial support to local farmers and food security programs, demonstrating its commitment to community resilience and recovery.

Support for Agricultural Recovery

BCUW donated a total of $9,625 to the Burke County Cattlemen's Association to assist local livestock producers whose pastures were severely damaged by the hurricane. This support included $2,500 for grass seed to restore damaged grazing lands and $7,125 for a hydraulic post driver—a critical piece of equipment that allows farmers to efficiently dig holes for fence posts in their pastures.

"The donation of a hydraulic post driver from Burke County United Way will have a huge impact on Burke County livestock producer's ability to recover,” said Damon Pollard, Extension Agent of Agriculture for NC Cooperative Extension in Burke County. “We have requests from producers who will be rebuilding around 18 -20 total miles of fence damaged by the hurricane. We also will be providing a limited number of posts to producers in need." 

The Burke County Cattlemen's Association, comprising local livestock producers, works to promote livestock production and protect the interests of livestock producers in Burke County. The organization collaborates closely with the North Carolina Cattlemen's Association and North Carolina Cooperative Extension to provide educational programming and events for county cattle producers.

Addressing Food Insecurity

In addition to supporting agricultural recovery, BCUW allocated $10,000 to address immediate food insecurity resulting from the hurricane. These funds were distributed among key local food assistance programs including St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church Food Pantry, Burke United Christian Ministries, East Burke Christian Ministries, and Glen Alpine Food Pantry. These organizations have been at the forefront of providing emergency food supplies to families affected by the hurricane and continue to serve vulnerable populations throughout the recovery process.

Holiday Support for Families

Recognizing the additional burden the hurricane placed on families during the holiday season, BCUW also contributed $3,500 to the Marine Corps League Table Rock Detachment, which manages the Toys for Tots Program in Burke County. This funding helped ensure that children from families impacted by the hurricane could still experience joy during the holiday season.

"The effects of Hurricane Helene continue to be felt throughout our community," said Maureen “Mo” Schwind, Executive Director at Burke County United Way. "By supporting both immediate needs and longer-term recovery efforts for our agricultural sector, we're helping ensure that Burke County emerges stronger and more resilient. We're particularly grateful to our donors whose generosity makes this vital support possible."

Burke County residents (those with established residency at the time of the hurricane) may apply for Hurricane Relief assistance at bcuw.org/helene-application. This application, which is provided in English and in Spanish, is intended for unmet needs; it is not available for reimbursement of past expense.