The Kunkletown Thrift Store is mobilizing to send essential supplies to North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has devastated parts of the state. Donna Diehl, thrift store manager, said the community is coming together to collect items such as cleaning supplies, deodorant, diapers, and more for those impacted.

“We’re loading the truck with anything people need to start over, like gloves, paper towels, and garbage bags,” she said.

The truck, set to leave on Saturday, will transport these donations to the areas hardest hit by the storm. With a deadline for donations set for Friday at 3 p.m., the store has already seen an outpouring of support.

According to Diehl, the relief effort was inspired by her son, who has a friend traveling to North Carolina to assist with recovery efforts.

“My son asked if we could help out, and we’re doing everything we can,” she said.

Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida before moving north, has caused catastrophic flooding and damage in western North Carolina, particularly in Asheville and Buncombe County. The storm has left over a million people without power and isolated entire communities due to impassable roads and destroyed infrastructure. The state has been placed under a federal disaster declaration, with emergency teams working to deliver food, water, and medical supplies to affected areas.

Diehl emphasized that every contribution counts, urging local residents to bring items that are often overlooked in disaster relief, like toothpaste and laundry detergent.

“When you’re starting from scratch, it’s the small things that make a big difference,” she said.