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On Monday evening, an important gathering took place in Mountain City, Tennessee, where the Johnson County Long-Term Recovery Group shared the latest updates on their ongoing efforts to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. This community meeting served as a platform to discuss progress and challenges in the recovery process.
Rebecca Wright, the Executive Director of the recovery group, revealed that since the start of the year, they have been managing 197 cases, with 148 cases still requiring attention and assistance. This highlights the extensive work that remains to be done in aiding the community’s recovery.
Wright emphasized that while financial contributions are critically needed, other forms of support are equally important. “Funding is one of them. We need volunteers, construction, you know, just anything from dirt to a roof,” she explained, underscoring the diverse range of resources required to rebuild lives and communities.
The group’s primary focus continues to be on homes needing reconstruction or repair. Additionally, there is a considerable demand for basic household items, which are essential to help affected families regain some normalcy in their lives.
Wright said the recovery group is focused on houses that need to be rebuilt and those that need repairs. Household items are also a need.
“Right now, furniture, as some of their new homes is getting put up,” she said. “Furniture, appliances, clothing, sheets, anything for a house.”
Wright said every donation the organization has received has been from private donors.
“I mean, we have excellent partners, but there’s only so much they can do with the overwhelming amount of work,” she said. “We had the highest residential impact in the six counties, lost 400 jobs. And I think it’s sad that we’ve only had help from private people.”
Wright wants people to know that the Long-Term Recovery Group is still working and “just a phone call away.”
“And, you know, we’re two people that work here, and we’re here all the time. So be patient. We’re coming.”