Dear Temple Beth El Community,
Our hearts are deeply moved by the stories and images emerging from Western North Carolina. The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has brought pain and disruption to so many, and we are continuing to support those in need. As things evolve, we are providing you with an update on Temple Beth El’s efforts and opportunities to support communities across the affected areas.
Past 72 Hours
In the past 72 hours, we have seen the power of community at work. Temple Beth El has been actively partnering with local organizations and in communication with congregations, including Temple Beth HaTephila in Asheville and Temple of the High Country in Boone, to provide much-needed relief. Because of your generosity and our partnership with Myers Park United Methodist Church, we were able to deliver thousands of pounds of water to Asheville, bringing immediate support to those grappling with the aftermath of the storm. We were honored to serve with our fellow congregants who volunteered to load trucks this morning.
Some members from these impacted communities have relocated to Charlotte. While we have not received requests for housing yet, we are so proud of our congregants who immediately and graciously offered to open their homes. This kind of compassion is what defines us as a community. Moreover, we have coordinated with the affected congregations to offer High Holy Day tickets for displaced members, so they can join us in prayer and find comfort during this sacred season.
Next Steps and Opportunities to Support
Donating Funds: As a community, we are not just responding to the urgent needs today; we are also looking at the long-term path to recovery. Our annual High Holy Days hunger relief drive, led by LIBERTY, will now become a Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief and Hunger Relief Fundraising Drive. All donations will go directly to hurricane relief and to support organizations addressing food insecurity locally and regionally. We will distribute these funds effectively and quickly to make an impact where it is needed most. This combined effort addresses both the immediate needs of those affected by the hurricane and supports our local Charlotte community which is now facing increased food insecurity because of this challenging time. As we approach Yom Kippur, our fasting serves as a poignant reminder of the hunger that many face, not just here but across the state.
We are deeply grateful that the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte has established an Emergency Relief Fund to provide direct support. Your contributions to this fund will go entirely to Jewish organizations and communities directly impacted by this storm, ensuring that our collective efforts reach those in need.
In this moment, the best way we can make an impact is through financial support. Whether you choose to contribute to Temple Beth El’s Hurricane Relief and Hunger Fund, the Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, or another trusted organization, know that your generosity is deeply needed.
Donating Items: We know that recovery will be long and difficult, requiring more than donations—it will require hands-on help, patience, and ongoing dedication. While we all wish to jump in and assist immediately, we understand that the desire to help often outstrips the avenues available to do so effectively. Below we have outlined a couple of opportunities for initial support.
To help meet the immediate logistical needs, we are supporting the following coordinated efforts of local groups working directly with the Emergency Managers of the impacted counties, sending items safely via air and donated trucks, driven by professional drivers. Please note that we are not collecting items at Temple Beth El or Shalom Park. Instead, donations can be made at the following drop-off location:
- Operation AirDrop has a unique capacity to deliver supplies by air directly to some of the hardest-hit areas. They are collecting the items listed here which should be brought to Operation AirDrop in the Wal-Mart Parking Lot (5825 Thunder Rd. NW, Concord, NC 28027) from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
- Matthews Hurricane Helene Recovery is collecting items (non-perishable food, bottled water, personal hygiene, cleaning supplies, baby supplies) for areas not reachable by air at the following two locations in Matthews:
- Matthews United Methodist Church (801 S Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105) from 9:00am to 8:00pm Monday through Friday.
- Socrates Academy (3815 Weddington Rd, Matthews, NC 28105) from 9:00am to 2:00pm and 5:00pm to 7:00pm Monday through Friday.
As we gather for the High Holy Days, we are reminded that our community is a beacon of hope. The journey ahead will be challenging, but we are committed to helping our neighbors rebuild—together, for as long as it takes.
In these days of awe, may we find strength in each other, reflect on what truly matters, and be inspired to bring healing wherever we can.
With deep gratitude and hope,
Rabbi Asher Knight
