CONCORD, N.C. — In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Church of God Children's Home in Concord is receiving unexpected community support that promises to brighten the holidays for its residents.
The home's annual October fundraiser was canceled after donors were devastated by the hurricane, creating a critical financial challenge for the organization. Ella Pepper, director of communications for the children's home, said the nonprofit is working creatively to meet its needs.
"We are stretching funds out to make ends meet," she said.
Pepper noted the organization is not only focused on providing Christmas for its children but also expanding capacity in response to the hurricane's statewide impact.
Local businesses have stepped forward to fill the fundraising gap. Cabarrus Brewing Company and Towel City Tavern are leading community efforts with a few things:
- angel trees to make sure the home's more than 20 children have Christmas gifts
- asking businesses and individuals to sponsor cottage "wishlists" - put together by house parents - for things to carry them through the next year as funds will be tight
- a workday on Friday, December 20, to repair the cottage and get it running again.
Corey Sloop, the brewing company's CFO, emphasized the personal connection.
"These kids are our community," he said.
The businesses are doing more than providing financial support. They are also actively engaging in repair and support efforts, demonstrating a commitment that goes beyond monetary contributions.
"This is just an extension of who we are, whether we're helping a church or helping an orphanage or whatever it may be, this is our future community, so we're here to support them," Sloop said.
For the children, the support represents more than material assistance.
"That's what we get to show our children - you are worthy of investment from strangers," Pepper said. "These are expectations we want to give you. This is what you deserve, not what you've been handed in the past. That's why community involvement is so important."
In a region recovering from significant hurricane damage, the children's home's story illustrates the resilience and compassion of local communities in times of crisis.
The charity drive continues through Dec. 20. Those interested in supporting the Church of God Children's Home can find more information online.
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
