Hurricane Helene Update 2

So many of you have asked how we're doing after the devastation of Hurricane Helene, and we are deeply touched by your concern. To keep you informed, we've started a blog to share updates on Asheville's recovery and rebuilding efforts. 

Many of us were without power for over a week, and some in our community endured up to 20 days without running water. Others are still waiting for essential services to be restored. Even now, many of our friends and neighbors are dealing with spotty cell service and no internet access. The devastation is a constant reminder of the heartbreak this storm has caused. 

Helicopters have been delivering supplies, and convoys of utility and military trucks have worked tirelessly to restore power. Giant sinkholes have swallowed parts of our roads, and broken forests and shattered neighborhoods now mark the landscape we call home. Just blocks from our warehouse in Swannanoa, homes and businesses were washed away, leaving immense destruction behind. 

While our warehouse sustained some roof damage, we were incredibly fortunate. Thanks to Bill, we were able to secure a Starlink system for our warehouse, allowing us to get back up and running. However, our phone lines are still down, so if you need assistance, please email us at order@cherrytreebeads.com. We know some emails may have been missed, so if you reached out and haven't heard back from us, please reach out again. 

We are thrilled to announce that our showroom is now open, and we'd love to welcome you back! However, please be cautious when visiting, as there are still traffic lights out and sinkholes in the area. 

As part of our efforts to support the community, we will be offering new jewelry kits with proceeds going to local organizations. We’ve also donated 100 elastic friendship bracelet kits to kids in the area that we hope will bring a little joy during these challenging times. 

Many of you have asked how you can help, and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity. Many local artists have been deeply affected by the storm, and if you'd like to support them, you can donate to a grant fund for local artists here. Your contributions will directly aid these artists as they rebuild their lives and businesses. 

Though recovery will take time, the resilience of this community gives us hope for the future. We are amazed by the outpouring of help and supplies that have come our way, and we remain optimistic. 

We are deeply thankful for your patience, support, and continued business during this difficult time. Your thoughts and prayers mean the world to us. Please continue to keep western North Carolina in your hearts—our people and businesses will need your support in the months to come.