How partnerships with farmers are helping NC communities impacted by Hurricane Helene

In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, as photos of destroyed roads and drifting homes spread across the country, volunteers and organizations rushed to Western North Carolina to assist communities left reeling by the storm’s destruction.

Among those helping with recovery efforts is Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP), an Asheville-based nonprofit that plays a critical role in restoring farms to feed people across the region. ASAP connects farmers to markets, links community members to locally grown food and promotes health.

“ASAP has long been a cornerstone to the region’s local food economy. Our mission is to help farms thrive and connect communities to fresh food,” said Molly Nicholi, executive director of ASAP. “We were able to respond immediately to support the livelihood of many farmers impacted by damage from Hurricane Helene.”

ASAP’s response addressed the needs of both small farms and families facing food insecurity. With funding from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) Foundation, ASAP focused its recovery efforts on helping ensure growers had equipment and access to markets. For community members, ASAP expanded nutrition security programs and reactivated Appalachian Farms Feed Families (AFFF) initiative.

A model for recovery

Originally developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, AFFF was reactivated to meet the urgent needs following Helene. The program connects farms with early childhood centers and restaurants, providing upfront payments for local food and strengthening community ties.

Impact highlights:

• 28 early education centers paired with farms, serving 560 children and families
• 36 restaurants partnered with farms, supporting 1,200 restaurant staff
• 55 farms received upfront payments totaling $75,700

“The restaurant industry showed up immediately to provide mutual aid and support across the region,” said Nicholi. “Independent restaurants and small businesses have been vital for growing the local food movement and diversifying market opportunities for farmers in the region.”

ASAP continues to assess needs through its Local Food Research Center, ensuring programs remain responsive and community-driven. With continued support from Blue Cross NC Foundation, ASAP is helping farms recover and building connections that improve the sustainability of local food systems.

Blue Cross NC, Healthy Blue and the Blue Cross NC Foundation have committed to supporting Western North Carolina’s long-term recovery (PDF).