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Hot Springs, NC, holds a special significance for me. I discovered this hidden gem one snowy evening while driving up the mountain from Asheville to Tennessee. It remains largely undiscovered by many, with a population of approximately 540 residents who often go overlooked. The town is steeped in history and community spirit.
Notably, Hot Springs is one of the few towns in North Carolina through which the Appalachian Trail passes directly. Numerous individuals living along the trail come into town to procure supplies. The local businesses are predominantly family-owned, featuring a gas station with above-ground tanks where payment is made inside. The hardware store operates on an honor system—customers can place large orders, provide their names, and return later to settle their accounts. The town is literally a single traffic light town.
While I could elaborate on the unique qualities of this town, the time for action is now. We have established several immediate goals and will expand our efforts as we assess the community's needs.
As we travel through Tennessee, we will evaluate the requirements of smaller towns, such as Del Rio, which currently lacks a cell tower, as we make our way to Hot Springs—assuming the roads are passable.
Our main goals are as follows:
- Deliver essential supplies and assess the community's needs.
- Mobilize the delivery and distribution of basic supplies, including toiletries, food, water, and clothing.
- Coordinate logistics for volunteer groups to assist in the cleanup and rebuilding efforts.
- Partner with local companies and vendors to facilitate applications for rebuilding assistance for residents in the affected communities through Seeds of Wellness, Inc.
As we implement each goal, we will keep our donors informed of additional needs, volunteer opportunities, and provide updates with photos documenting progress.
Surrounded by national forest on all sides, this town is currently isolated and in urgent need of assistance, support, and prayer.