Back to School: Helping Hurricane Helene Survivors with a Head Start Program Return Home

Nearly a year after Hurricane Helene inundated Quaker Meadows Generations in Morganton, North Carolina, staff rejoiced as students and families returned for a new school year, marking a heartfelt homecoming. “Witnessing the joy in those children’s eyes, especially those who were here pre-hurricane, as they glimpsed the new playgrounds and equipment—it truly completed the circle,” expressed Tina Kyes, Family and Child Development Director at Blue Ridge Community Action (BRAC), the program’s parent organization.As families, children, and staff gathered beneath a balloon arch, they celebrated BRAC’s 60th anniversary. The organization not only manages three childcare programs but also provides various community services across several counties, addressing a range of needs. After Helene, numerous programs were relocated across multiple sites. Cheryl Leonhardt, director of Quaker Meadows Generations, emphasized the urgency of ensuring employee well-being while providing continued services. The recovery journey reset many systems in the community, highlighting both challenges and unwavering support.