In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s impact on the Appalachian region, a local business is taking steps to help with relief efforts.
Joshua Ravenscraft, co-owner of New Frontier, said his company has launched a collection of Appalachia Strong apparel. Ravenscraft said the phrase is more than just a saying.
“The term Appalachia Strong is being proud of the region but also the region is resilient, it’s full of grit and authenticity. And that phrase is meant to be hopeful and a dot on the horizon that there will be a better tomorrow and to stay strong and we’ll get through this together as a community, as we always do,” said Ravenscraft.
He said helping those in need is something that is important to him, and this is a good way to give back to the communities that were so welcoming of his small business.
“It just so happens to be a hurricane and flooding this time but if it was anything, if it was a wildfire, whatever it may be, we feel like it’s our duty in this community and region to help out. And I think it should inspire other small businesses, musicians, or folks that are in whatever space they’re in, to do something, maybe use their business to help give back,” said Ravenscraft.
Ravenscraft said the collection is a way to give back to the region that has been so supportive of his small business, and that being part of a close-knit community like Appalachia means helping neighbors in need.
Cash donations are the most effective way to help after a disaster, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Ravenscraft said 100% of the proceeds from the collection will go to help recovery efforts in Tennessee and North Carolina.