South Toe Community | Grace By Example

South Toe Community Stories

Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding in the South Toe Community of western North Carolina. Rivers surged over 30 feet, destroying homes, farms, roads, and parts of Pisgah National Forest. Local groups like Camp Celo and the South Toe Volunteer Firefighters provided immediate aid. Click below to read more about the South Toe Community and the individuals affected.

*Credit: Story reproduced from “Report on Damaged Homes on S. Toe River” Sponsored by Mt. Mitchell Baptist Church by Rhonda and Jeff London

The Barry Eckard Story

After losing his wife, Barry was alone in the home they built over 40 years ago. Then Hurricane Helene flooded it completely. Now living in a trailer, he’s holding onto hope for a fresh start.

The Johnson Family Story

When Hurricane Helene flooded their home, Judy held her disabled daughter Taylor above the rising water for hours. Her husband Tim survived outside, clinging to a tree. Now, they’re holding on to hope for a safe, stable home to start again.

The Badschild Family Story

After losing their home to a devastating storm, the Badschild family has faced heartbreaking loss and ongoing challenges. With Albert’s passing and Sylvia now in Hospice care, their daughter Vanessa has stepped in as a full-time caregiver while raising her own family. This is a glimpse into their journey—where they've been, what they’ve endured, and how they’re moving forward with hope and support.

The Howard Family Story

After losing their home to the flood, Matt, his wife Dawn, and their three sons faced a difficult road ahead. A dedicated pastor and skilled mason, Matt began rebuilding on land he co-owned, where his church also stands. With determination and faith, the family has nearly completed their new home. Now living there, they continue to manage remaining costs and look ahead to a future focused on helping others recover from disaster.

The Crane Family Story

Jeff and Sheila’s home near the South Toe River was heavily damaged by flooding, though it remained standing. After clearing out the damage and restoring the eroded riverbank, Jeff is now preparing to move and elevate the house to meet safety codes. With support from Providence Church and a plan in place, they’re taking the next steps toward securing their home against future floods.

South Toe Materials and Resources

We assisted the community of South Toe in securing 20- and 40-foot Conex boxes to store donated food, water, supplies, and essential equipment to be distributed to the community via the South Toe Volunteer Fire Department.

*A grateful thank you to Cam-Ful Industries, Inc of Charlotte for their gracious support.