Hurricane Helene's Wake: More Than What the Eye Can See

The devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina is a heartbreaking reminder of nature’s relentless power. The loss of life and the destruction of homes and infrastructure are at the forefront of our minds, and while these tragedies demand attention, there's another group enduring the quiet aftermath—our local farmers.

A couple of weekends ago, I visited Lively Apple Orchards in Flat Rock, North Carolina. After a hike, I stopped by their roadside stand and picked up a peck of Honeycrisp apples. I chatted with the owner, who shared her love for Ambrosia apples and graciously offered me a few to try. Standing there, I admired the acres of vibrant apple trees, completely filled and heavy with ripe apples.

Fast forward to today, and I can’t help but think about the immense loss farmers across the region have faced. In just a matter of days, crops that took years to nurture were gone. Apple orchards and Christmas tree farms—the very heart of many small, family-owned businesses—are now facing an uncertain future.

The media may focus on the immediate human toll of this disaster, and rightfully so, but I want to shine a light on the quieter stories of resilience and survival that businesses like these embody. When you visit a local orchard or purchase a tree this holiday season, remember that behind every purchase is a family working tirelessly to recover and rebuild.

Supporting these farmers is more than just a transaction—it’s a way to uplift a community that continues to give, even in the face of loss. So, if your apples or Christmas tree cost a little more this year, consider it an investment in people who are as resilient as the land they love.

Now, more than ever, our support matters. Let’s help these businesses not just survive, but thrive again.

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