El Futuro Stands with Our Communities in WNC

In the wake of the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene on western North Carolina and recently in Florida after Hurricane Milton, our hearts are heavy. The destruction we have heard about and seen through the news and social media, as well as our staff’s family members, friends, and partners across North Carolina is overwhelming– but we know that the Latino community is resilient and strong. Communities are already pulling together to support those in need, and we are committed to doing the same.

In North Carolina, El Futuro is actively working with the NC Office of Rural Health to offer telehealth support through Farmworker Health sites, helping ensure that mental health services remain accessible in these trying times. We’ve also established stand-up meetings with our leadership team to continuously assess the situation and coordinate efforts with our partners at Alliance and UNCG in WNC as they continue to try to support the Latino community while dealing with their losses in the area.

We know that the road to recovery will be long and challenging, but we are in this together. Our team is familiar with various organizations working on the ground. If you want to help the community in WNC you can do it through the incredible organizations listed at the bottom of this letter.

While we know the importance of immediate action, we also want to take a moment to recognize how you may be feeling as you are reading this statement. 

The emotional impact of a hurricane can be overwhelming, but there are ways to manage stress and take care of your mental health during this difficult time:

• Take Breaks from the News: While staying informed is important, continuously consuming news about the disaster can increase stress. Make time to disconnect and focus on other activities.

• Reach Out for Support: Talk to friends, family, or community members. Sharing your feelings and experiences can help reduce the emotional burden.

• Practice Deep Breathing: When stress feels overwhelming, take a few minutes to practice deep breathing exercises to calm your body and mind. Even just a few minutes of mindful breathing can help reduce anxiety.

• Stick to Your Routine: Try to maintain regular routines, especially for children. A structure can help create a sense of stability during uncertain times.

• Access Mental Health Resources: If the stress becomes too much to handle, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for support. Many services, like telehealth counseling, are available even during disasters.

If you have suggestions or requests on how El Futuro can further support those affected in WNC, please contact us here. Together, we can help rebuild and provide the necessary support to those who need it most.

We will continue to share updates and ways to help as we work alongside our partners and our community. Thank you for standing with us and the vibrant Latino community of western North Carolina during this time.