FCFI Partners with Amish Volunteers to Bring Hope to Swannanoa, North Carolina

Swannanoa, NC — Amid the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastation of Tropical Storm Helene, a remarkable partnership has emerged between the Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI) and Amish volunteers. Together, they are working to restore hope and provide vital housing for affected families in Swannanoa.

FCFI had organized Amish volunteers to assist with home restoration of Helene damage for Michell Beddingfield. “Initially, Samaritan’s Purse came in and mucked the mud out,” said Mitchell Beddingfield, a local resident reflecting on the recovery process. “The Amish installed insulation and sheetrock, giving us a home again.”

 And the volunteers were so efficient with their time that they found additional time to help with constructing 12-by-16-foot insulated cabins to house those whose homes had either been swept away by flooding or so damaged they were unlivable. These tiny homes, complete with a mini-fridge and microwave, offer more than just shelter—they provide warmth, dignity, and a fresh start. Beth Dalton, a volunteer spearheading the project, highlighted the impact: “So far, we’ve been able to put 20 people in them” thanks to efforts from several collaborating organizations.

For many, these efforts symbolize more than rebuilding homes—they represent a renewal of faith and community.

Orlondo Morris, one recipient of a tiny home placed on his grandmother’s property, is grateful for the generosity. “I keep struggling to come up with the words to give thanks to these people who have been here from day one,” he shared.

As Christmas approaches, Morris is preparing to spend his first night in the cabin, warmed by both its heat and the kindness of strangers.

Dalton emphasized that the project isn’t over yet, with a waitlist of about 20 more families in need of housing. “Each one costs around $6,000 to build,” she explained, underscoring the importance of continued community support.

A large sign at the construction site on Old US Highway 70 lists the names of the many companies and organizations contributing to the effort. Meanwhile, social media has also played a crucial role, connecting those in need with those who can help.

As Swannanoa residents reflect on the outpouring of support, FCFI’s coordination of Amish volunteers stands out as a testament to what can be achieved when faith, compassion, and action intersect. “At Christmas, I’m giving thanks to literally thousands of people,” said Beddingfield, expressing the gratitude shared by many in the community.

While much work remains. It is estimated it will take about 2 years for the collaborative efforts of all the organizations to finish the rebuilding in North Carolina.

FCFI is organizing for another trip in September. FCFI volunteers will shift focus this year, after 3 years of rebuilding homes destroyed by a tornado in 2021 in Mayfield, Kentucky, to North Carolina rebuilding this year.

We need to start raising money for materials.  Will you help contribute or can you volunteer? Go to the disaster relief webpage and sign up for volunteering: https://www.fcfi.org/disaster-relief-and-missions/ and for giving: https://www.fcfi.org/give/. Be sure to utilize and fill in the “comment” blank if you have something to ask or discuss with us concerning volunteering or giving.