Wine To Water Intensifies WNC Recovery Efforts After Helene
UPDATE: Wine To Water (WTW) is ramping up its efforts to support Western North Carolina (WNC) as the community continues to recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. The storm, which struck in September 2024, caused unprecedented flooding, leaving thousands without access to clean water and contaminating numerous wells.
In a swift response, WTW mobilized just 48 hours after the hurricane, providing immediate aid to the hardest-hit areas. To date, the organization and over 1,300 volunteers have achieved significant milestones, including the distribution of 400,000 gallons of clean drinking water and the delivery of 1.2 million pounds of emergency supplies.
As recovery efforts evolve, WTW is shifting focus from immediate relief to long-term solutions, including water-system repairs and disinfections. “Western North Carolina is our home, and our recovery from Hurricane Helene has shown just how strong and united our community is,” stated Jeremy Kilday, U.S. Program Director at WTW. “Our work doesn’t end here. We’re committed to ensuring households have access to the clean, safe water they need to thrive.”
The organization continues to provide free water testing, having conducted over 920 quality tests across 23 counties to ensure local water sources remain safe. This proactive approach is critical as many families still face challenges in accessing reliable, clean water.
On Friday, September 26, 2025, WTW will host a free public commemoration event at the Appalachian Mountain Brewery in Boone from 5 to 8 p.m.. The gathering will feature reflections from community partners, stories of resilience, and live music, providing an opportunity for the community to come together. Complimentary food and drinks will be available, courtesy of FiltersFast.com, for those who RSVP.
To support ongoing recovery efforts, individuals can contribute to WTW by visiting give.wtw.org/wnc2025. For more details about the organization and its mission, please visit their official site.
The impact of Hurricane Helene continues to resonate throughout WNC, but with organizations like Wine To Water actively involved, the community’s recovery journey exemplifies strength and solidarity. As WTW takes significant steps towards long-term recovery, their commitment to ensuring safe drinking water remains a top priority.
Community members are urged to participate in the upcoming commemoration, not only to honor the resilience shown over the past year but also to engage in ongoing recovery efforts. This is a pivotal moment for WNC, and every contribution helps in the fight for clean water access for all.
