CHARLOTTE, N.C. — 11 weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, local builders and Lowe's are creating 17 tiny homes to provide immediate shelter for families who lost their residences in the storm.
Danny Kelly, a volunteer builder involved in the project, said the collaborative effort aims to offer more than just temporary housing.
"Hopefully this will give them a little bit more normalcy while they're rebuilding their homes," he said. "That's why I'm a builder. I mean, that's the American dream, right? Come home to a safe place with your family, have a place to eat, do homework, sleep."
Each home measures 8 feet wide and 16 feet long. They will be fully equipped with a living space, bathroom, and kitchen. Lowe's is also providing tools and materials to support the builders in their reconstruction efforts.
Julie Yenichek, Senior Director of Community Relations at Lowe's, emphasized the community-driven nature of the project.
"I see a sign of hope. I see a sign of neighbors helping neighbors," Yenichek said. "I see everybody coming together to make sure that our neighbors in western North Carolina have a safe and warm place for the holiday."
The homes are slated for distribution in Avery and Buncombe counties before Christmas Eve. Next week, NASCAR haulers will transport the tiny homes, further highlighting the community's commitment to recovery.
Kelly noted that the region's rebuilding process will be lengthy.
"Western North Carolina is going to be rebuilding for a long time, years," he said. "Hopefully this kind of keeps us at the forefront and reminds people to continue to send help however way they can."
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.