When Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina on September 27th, the staff at Well of Mercy wanted to help immediately. But the overwhelming need made our individual abilities feel small in comparison.

For nearly 48 hours, I wrestled with the question of how we could meaningfully assist. In prayer, I asked God, “How can I help?” The answer came clearly: “You work at Well of Mercy—what skills do you demonstrate there that can be applied to the relief effort?”

That question became my guide. I began by emailing our staff and board members with a few suggestions:

• Make our empty rooms available to evacuees
• Donate proceeds from our gift shop
• Donate as individuals to trusted charities
• Pray

The response was nothing short of amazing.

A Team Effort in Action

Our staff sprang into action. Through emails, phone calls, and text messages, we found two guests who accepted our offer of respite. Meanwhile, a board member and her spouse filled five more vacant rooms with evacuees from the Asheville area.

Then, two generous donors stepped in, covering the costs for all seven guests over 45 nights. During their two-week stay, our team ensured these evacuees had everything they needed. We purchased extra food and toiletries, and our kitchen team prepared meals with enough leftovers for the days we are typically closed.

The group of guests already on-site welcomed the evacuees with open hearts, inviting them into conversations and meditations. What unfolded next was nothing short of miraculous.

A Ripple Effect of Care

Four of the seven evacuees staying with us were therapists. Because they were cared for—and had access to power and internet—they were able to extend care to others. Over their stay, they:

• Provided 55 therapy sessions to support those affected by the hurricane
• Participated in trauma training to better serve their communities
• Processed payroll, ensuring their staff got paid
• Monitored news updates and shared helpful resources with those in Asheville, where communication was intermittent

Their list of contributions grew to four pages long. What started as a few open rooms at Well of Mercy became a lifeline for many, as their acts of service rippled outward into the community.

Loaves, Fishes, and Trusting God

This experience reminded me of the story of the boy who shared his loaves and fishes with Jesus (John 6:6-13). Jesus blessed that small gift and fed thousands. In the same way, Well of Mercy offered just a few available rooms, and God multiplied that gift to reach far beyond what we imagined.

Continuing to Serve

While the needs in Western North Carolina evolve, Well of Mercy remains committed to sending love and light. Over the next three months, 30% of our gift shop proceeds will support various charities in the region. For October, we’ve chosen Beloved Asheville as our recipient.

Join Us in Doing What You Do Best

The recovery process will take time, and the need is great. We invite you to do what you do best by offering your gifts and talents to support your local community or organizations in Western North Carolina. Even a small contribution can have a profound impact—just as God turned a few loaves and fishes into a meal for thousands.

Sandra H. O’Brien
Executive Director