Who We Are?
Our Mission
We are called to help and serve people and that’s what we do.
At Small Town Disaster Relief, we are a devoted team of volunteers working tirelessly to support communities in North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene. With homes swept away by floods and families displaced, we provide essential food, water, clothing, and prayer to those in need. In this time of loss and uncertainty, we stand together to offer compassion, hope, and a helping hand, ensuring that no one faces this crisis alone.
Small Town Disaster Relief
Kate Lummus with Mission Christmas (out of Statesville, NC – warehouse)
I am a sucker for giving. I will spend my last dollar to purchase something for someone else before I buy something for myself. It’s just who I am as a person. Fortunately, I have made some AMAZING friends over the years who share the same ideals, and have helped to host events and raise money to continue to grow and expand our efforts on giving back. This is my passion. This is my calling. This is what drives me as a person to be better every single day.
Haley Szymonski with Christiana Lutheran Church (Salisbury, NC – logistics)
Office Administrator at Christiana Lutheran Church, and lead Assistance Coordinator.
Currently co-own and operate White Horse Candle Co.
Poultry Genetics Expert & Co-Author of “The Ultimate Guide to Hatching”
Fun fact: As of today, 10.11.24 (day 15 since Hurricane Helene) over 37,000 people in Western North Carolina are still without power. And are not projected to have power for 2-3 months.
Our Core Values
Faith: We believe in the power of spiritual support and prayer as essential components of healing and hope in times of crisis.
Compassion: We prioritize empathy and kindness, offering support to those affected by disaster with open hearts.
Community: We believe in the power of togetherness, uniting volunteers and local residents to foster a strong network of support.
Integrity: We operate with transparency and honesty, ensuring that our actions and resources are focused on the needs of those we serve.
Resilience: We are committed to helping individuals and families rebuild their lives, promoting hope and strength in the face of adversity.
Service: We embrace the spirit of volunteerism, dedicating our time and efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Inclusivity: We welcome everyone, regardless of background, and strive to provide equitable support to all members of our community.