WE'RE MAKING AN IMPACT
High Country United Way brings communities together to find strength and share hope. It’s the way we rally in hard times to meet people’s needs so they can rise back up and build a better future.
Launched on October 1, 2024 and just days after the storm, the Helene Rapid Response Fund fund was created to quickly support recovery efforts across our region. Phase 1 funding was distributed within two weeks after the storm, and Phase 2 concluded on June 30, 2025. We are honored to support these trusted community partners for their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Helene recovery. To donate to the Helene Rapid Response Fund, click to donate.
The following trusted partners were granted funding from Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Helene Rapid Response Fund:
Appalachian Disaster Coalition
Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness (SPROUT)
Ashe Advantage Project
Avery County Habitat for Humanity
Back 2 School Festival – Watauga
Bald Creek Relief
Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission Inc.
Blue Ridge Resource Conservation & Development
Casting Bread, Free Market, and Cafe
Egypt & Ramseytown Volunteer Fire Department
Elk River Helping Hands (Fiscal Agent – Bridges for Avery)
Feeding Avery Families
Fuller Center Disaster Rebuilders, Inc.
GLAD (Greater Lansing Area Development)
Green Valley Volunteer Fire Department
Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina
Lansing Volunteer Fire Department
Lansing's Bridge to Recovery
Mitchell County Long-Term Recovery Group
Mitchell County Long-Term Recovery Group – Unmet Needs
Mitchell County Shepherd's Staff
Musicians Mission of Mercy
Partners Aligned Toward Health (PATH)
RISE Disaster Relief & Recovery Inc.
Septic Wastewater Solutions
Bradshaw Volunteer Fire Department
W.A.M.Y. Community Action
Watauga County Housing Council
Watauga County Long-Term Recovery Group – Unmet Needs Case Management
Western Youth Network
Yancey County Long-Term Recovery Group – Unmet Needs
Please check back for updates regarding the opening date of Phase 3 of the Helene Rapid Response Fund.
Healthy Community
Improving Health and Wellbeing for All
Everyone should be able to make healthy choices for themselves and their families. But there can be lots of barriers in underserved communities. United Way’s partnerships with local groups expand access to nutritious food and quality health care, education and services.
Youth Opportunity
Helping young people realize their full…
At United Way, we want all kids to soar. So we work with the people who care for them — from families and neighbors, to schools and community agencies — to connect young people with the support they need.
Financial Security
Building financial stability and strength
Everyone deserves the opportunity to earn a living that can sustain a family and build security for future generations. That’s why we’re partnering to help more adults thrive in a career, live in quality housing and build generational wealth.
Community Resiliency
Addressing urgent needs today and advancing…
United Way believes every community deserves to prosper. We work with our neighbors to build resilient communities that are more connected, supportive and ready to respond to any challenge.