Pinecrest Presbyterian Church, Flat Rock, NC
Rev. Rhett Carson reached out last night with an update.
On Sunday, we had about 75 people members, visitors, and neighbors come to Pinecrest today to eat the BBQ I smoked last night and left with a few essential items. And just being around people, in AC, with the lights on meant a lot. Able to give hugs, swap stories, laugh, cry, pray.
We’re going to do it again tomorrow (Monday) with burgers.
I’ve heard back from 90% of Pinecrest members that they are ok. Most have some damage, no power, but have water and essentials. Some have lost everything or have massive damage and no timeline for repairs. A good chunk of members (20%) have left or are leaving the area until things settle down.
Gas stations and grocery stores are starting to get power and open back up. Praying they will stay well supplied. Gas stations are opening but cash only. Hospital got power back yesterday. Schools are closed indefinitely as most have been damaged and roads are unsafe.
Most bridges have been damaged and will need to be replaced. Fallen trees are everywhere still, but most roads have been cleared.We served about 150 people today(Tuesday) and we’re doing it again tomorrow. We had a local restaurant donate all the food in the fridge to us to give out before it spoiled since they had no generator.
Praying for continued repairs and rescue efforts and that God would use us well to help a hurting community. Still, we are in much better shape than the surrounding communities especially just north of us.
The Good Samaritan Fund has been set up with an online giving link for Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief. You may click here to give online or mail a check to the ARP Center, 918 S. Pleasantburg Dr., Ste. 127, Greenville, SC 29607. Be sure to include Hurricane Helene in the memo. Let me know if you have any questions, stanner@arpsynod.org.
Because of the generosity of the denomination, funds are being dispersed to the churches in Hendersonville, Flat Rock, and Asheville with hopes of sending more as funds are available. If you know of any other updates in your area, please reach out to me, 864-906-2002.