One year ago, Hurricane Helene swept through Western North Carolina, leaving a trail of devastation that deeply affected our Givens community — including team members, families, friends, and residents alike. The storm tested our resilience, but it also revealed the extraordinary strength of our shared compassion.
In the wake of Helene, the Team Member Assistance Ministry became a vital source of hope and healing. Through the generosity of donors and the unwavering support of our community, we raised over $300,000 to help those impacted by the storm. These funds provided emergency relief for housing, food, transportation, and other urgent needs, ensuring that our team members could begin to rebuild their lives with dignity and support. Funds raised during the storm also supported the drilling of a water well on the Givens Estates and Givens Highland Farms campuses, ensuring access to water during times of crisis.
Among the many team members at Givens Communities affected by Hurricane Helene, Rita Massey and Christopher Snyder courageously shared their experiences during the storm and how the Team Member Assistance Ministry provided meaningful support in their time of need.
Givens Highland Farms team member Rita Massey experienced the devastating loss of her home due to flooding. Despite facing this personal crisis, Rita remained committed to caring for residents at Highland Farms while her family stepped up to volunteer in the community.
Thanks to the Team Member Assistance Ministry Rita was able to secure a new apartment with help covering the deposit and rent. The Marketing team donated furniture and decorations to help furnish her new space, and the Dietary team ensured meals were available during the storm’s aftermath. The Givens community came together with compassion and support. Reflecting on the experience, Rita shared:
“I don’t know what I would have done without the support of everyone around me and especially Givens for taking care of my family and me.”
Givens Estates team member Christopher Snyder also lost his home in the storm. In the face of this devastation, Christopher demonstrated remarkable dedication by working tirelessly each day to flush toilets, provide water to residents and team members, and coordinate volunteers to serve the community.
With assistance from the Team Member Assistance Ministry, Christopher felt supported during this challenging time. As his home is now being rebuilt, he reflects with deep gratitude on the care and generosity shown by the Givens community.
“The financial support and the continued emotional support from team members and residents was a great resource to me following Helene. This support exemplifies our community values and is why I am proud to call Givens home.”
This past year has been a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together. The stories of recovery and gratitude from over 10% of team members who received assistance are a testament to the heart of our mission.
As we mark the one-year anniversary, we honor not only the resilience of our community but also the enduring legacy of generosity that continues to flourish. Philanthropy remains at the heart of supporting Givens Communities during times of need — providing vital resources and inspiring hope when it’s needed most. Thank you to everyone who gave, advocated, and stood beside the Givens community during this difficult time. Your kindness has made a lasting impact, and your commitment continues to inspire.
Your generosity makes moments of hope and healing possible. If you feel moved to support the Team Member Assistance Ministry and those facing unexpected hardship, we invite you to make a gift today:
https://givensphilanthropy.org/giving/