Louisiana Restaurateur Hosts Fundraiser to Help Hurricane Victims in North Carolina
LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - A local restauranteur is once again organizing the community to assist those in need.
Tim Metcalf, who owns several restaurants in the Lafayette area, is holding a community "giveback" event on Tuesday to raise money for a North Carolina family currently living in a tent with two infants.
Metcalf, who owns all three Deano's locations (two in Lafayette and one in Henderson) and both Prejean's locations (Carencro and Broussard), and has taken over the operations of Viva La Waffle in Lafayette, first announced on the Moon Griffon Show on Friday that he would be raising the money for the family in need, which includes a U.S. veteran and his two small children.
Metcalf confirmed the community "giveback" night to KPEL News on Sunday, noting it would take place this Tuesday.
"We're hosting a giveback night at all three Deano's, two Prejeans, and Viva [La Waffle] Tuesday to get a camper to a North Carolina family with two babies who are sleeping in a tent," Metcalf said in a text. "It will be all day, dine-in or carry-out."
North Carolina has been struggling to recover after Hurricane Helene tore through the state in late September. Several parts of the state are still inaccessible, and there are families without power or even homes.
Metcalf's goal is to raise enough money to buy a camper for this particular North Carolina family. Currently, they are living in a tent, but have no access to power.
Severe Flooding and Mudslides Cause Widespread Damage
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina, leaving behind a trail of devastation across towns such as Asheville, Old Fort, and Spruce Pine. The storm brought intense flooding, mudslides, and road closures, displacing residents and crippling infrastructure. Even weeks later, more than 130,000 people remain without power, while local communities are still struggling to recover from the damage.
Adding to the hardships, unsafe water supplies have left many residents dependent on bottled water. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has issued several boil-water advisories, and multiple water treatment facilities remain out of service as repairs continue.
Loss of Life and Rescue Operations
The human impact of Hurricane Helene has been devastating. Across the Southeastern U.S., the storm has claimed more than 230 lives, with authorities continuing search-and-rescue missions to locate missing individuals. Both local law enforcement and the National Guard have mobilized to support rescue efforts and distribute essential supplies, while federal military personnel assist on the ground.
Governor Roy Cooper has toured the hardest-hit areas, including Asheville and Lake Lure, where he pledged state funding and long-term rebuilding initiatives to restore the region’s economic stability.
Community-Led Recovery and Fundraising Efforts
While government agencies work to restore infrastructure, local communities have stepped up to fill immediate needs. Nonprofit organizations in partnership with the Red Cross are providing shelter, food, and medical aid to displaced residents. Schools, sports teams, and local businesses are organizing fundraising events to support relief efforts, rallying together to assist those in need.
However, many families still face ongoing challenges in securing clean water and safe housing, highlighting the importance of sustained public and private support throughout the recovery phase.
How to Help or Stay Updated
Aside from attending the community "giveback" night, those who want to contribute by making donations to trusted organizations like the NCDPS and the Red Cross, both actively coordinating relief efforts in the affected areas. Residents and concerned individuals can stay informed by following county social media channels and official emergency management websites for real-time updates on recovery progress.
Long Road to Recovery
As western North Carolina begins to rebuild, it’s clear that the recovery from Hurricane Helene will require a comprehensive, long-term effort. Both government agencies and local communities are playing critical roles, but more help is needed to ensure residents can fully recover. Continued contributions from individuals, businesses, and nonprofits will be crucial in helping these communities overcome the devastating effects of this natural disaster.
LIST: 10 Deadliest Louisiana Hurricanes
Gallery Credit: Rob Kirkpatrick