Murphy – Many areas in western North Carolina have been completely destroyed by Hurricane Helene, leaving individuals and families without homes.
With temperatures decreasing, finding temporary housing for these people is crucial. In these situations, FEMA often works with hotels as a way to provide quick and secure temporary housing.
In order for individuals to receive FEMA housing they must go to FEMA’s website or speak with a representative to apply. Once they have been approved, they are given a FEMA registration number and can call hotels that are partnered with the group to make reservations.
FEMA pays for the cost of the room, and even pet fees if applicable, meaning there is no cost to the victims seeking shelter. Locally, Best Western is one of those hotels that have partnered with FEMA and has been housing hurricane victims since Oct. 5.
Best Western has eight rooms that are utilizing this aid, but have had more, and have more reservations coming in each day. The circumstances and situations of each victim are different. Some guests are planning to stay into December because they’ve lost everything to the hurricane, while others stay for a few weeks before going back to their communities or moving on to stay with family members.
The general manager of Best Western of Murphy, Mary Katherine Smyth, has been amazed by the support and outreach of the local community.
Local residents and the Cherokee Clay Food Alliance have donated snacks, toiletries, drinks and clothing to victims staying at the hotel. Local restaurants and food trucks, such as Dragon Ass Smoked BBQ, have brought hot meals for the guests. Others have taken the time to socialize and hear the victim’s stories.
“I wish there were words to describe the gratitude of our guests to these supporters,” Smyth said.
Smyth also expressed pride and gratitude for her staff at the Best Western.
The housekeepers have helped to provide the victims and other guests with clean and comfortable rooms. The front desk staff has helped to provide hot breakfast and coffee, but also have served as a listening ear to those coping with the trauma of their experiences. They have helped to organize and deliver the donations the hotel has received. Each employee plays a significant role in supporting these victims.
“The stories we have heard about what has happened in Asheville and in other communities have been heartbreaking. The donation of supplies has been nonstop and amazing. The people who are working tirelessly to provide even the smallest items that we take for granted, are amazing individuals and it truly makes me happy to live in such a loving area,” Smyth said.
In the aftermath, Cherokee County has found a wide variety of ways to provide aid from donations to shelter to clean-up crews. The entire community recognizes this was a close call for our area, “I believe this has shown us all, how quickly our lives can change and how kindness can go a long way,” Smyth said.