North Carolina community group Rural Organizing and Resilience has begun aid distributions at 1685 Hwy. 213 in Marshall. ROAR is open from 2 to 6 p.m. every day.
ROAR typically organizes against racism in Madison County through education and outreach. Since Hurricane Helene swept through the region, it’s responded to need for emergency supplies in the community.
Matt Wallace, the organization’s co-founder, said despite state and federal efforts, many people haven’t been able to access aid.
Wallace was headed out Wednesday to deliver supplies to an isolated nursing home in Burnsville. He recounted the previous day.
“Yesterday, I hiked through the woods to a spot on the Ivy River that was cut off. They have no way to drive out to check on some people, so that’s definitely still happening right now,” Wallace said.
Authorities have asked residents who want to help to stay off the roads as much as possible, so they don’t hamper search and rescue efforts. But Wallace said that because of poor cell service, many needs — including needs like medical supplies and water — are only being communicated via word of mouth.
ROAR’s mutual aid hub in Marshall also offers clean needles, NARCAN and other harm-reduction supplies. The group is soliciting donations for basic items like gasoline, baby supplies and medical supplies. ROAR is also coordinating volunteers to sort supplies and drive them to people in need.