Farmers Helping Farmers Recuperate from Hurricane Helene by Donating Hay – by CP Foster (delivered the hay)

The FCFI donation of hay to farmers in North Carolina resulted in a community hub of activity

In October of last year, Hurricane Helene ravaged western North Carolina. Locals describe the affected area as larger than the entire state of New Jersey. While North Carolina is often known for its beaches and flatlands, the western region — referred to as the High Country — is mountainous, rugged, and deeply rooted in tradition. Mt. Mitchell, the state’s highest peak, rises over 6,000 feet, and nestled in this region is the town of Spruce Pine, where Bill Brown will lead a team this fall to assist in the ongoing recovery effort.

Flooding, landslides, and vast forests of wind-damaged trees have left devastation that’s hard to comprehend. With rough terrain and many roads washed out or inaccessible, the challenge of relief work is monumental.

Yet the response has been extraordinary. Over 4,000 small square bales, round bales, and silage bales were delivered to Leicester (pronounced Lester), NC — a visible testimony of what can only be described as collective action. Farms across Pennsylvania and New York opened their barns and their hearts. Volunteers stacked over 700 bales per trailer, reaching to the roof. Meals were shared. Stories flowed. It was the body of Christ in motion.

The giving was matched by grace on the receiving end. The mountain folks — proud of their heritage and accustomed to doing for themselves — didn’t come looking for handouts, just a little help for their livestock. They arrived in worn pickups and old cars, many with dogs guarding the cab. And when they came, they stayed — helping load their neighbors, friends, and strangers alike, always with smiles and laughter.

4000 bales donated by caring farmers and delivered by CP

These resilient men and women have carved out homes on the sides of mountains for generations. They don’t want to be seen as “takers,” and they rarely pose for photos. But when a guy in a cowboy hat, suspenders, and a turkey feather shows up (that me, CP), he’s only a stranger for a few moments. We worked, ate, and laughed together — and witnessed the greatness of God through a truly collective act of mercy and unity.

As in the days of Nehemiah, when God’s people rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem together, today we too can see how God works through community. To Him be the glory.