Asheville, August 14, 2025
News Summary
Asheville families gathered near downtown for a free school supply giveaway aimed at supporting those affected by Hurricane Helene. Organized by the AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness and Community Center, the event highlighted the community’s resilience and dedication to helping families in need. Supplies were distributed through donations from local organizations, addressing the heightened demand for educational resources this year. With additional events planned, the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to ensure students have necessary school materials for their academic success.
Asheville families lined up near downtown to receive free school supplies during an event designed to help those affected by Hurricane Helene. The giveaway was organized by the AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness and Community Center as part of a larger effort to address the increased need for school supplies this year. Supplies were provided through donations from AmeriHealth, the YMCA, and various private contributors, highlighting the community’s support in these trying times.
This event follows a previous school supply giveaway organized by Eblen Charities, which distributed “Ingles Tools for Schools” supplies earlier this month. Both initiatives are reflective of a broader trend, as local organizations step up to meet the heightened demand for educational materials in the wake of the hurricane.
Wellness Center Administrator Courtney Wilson emphasized the significance of providing essential school supplies for students, particularly following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Families who attended expressed profound gratitude for the materials they received, which included backpacks, notebooks, and writing utensils.
In conjunction with these events, John McClung Roofing is preparing for its annual Backpack Giveaway, aiming to distribute 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies on August 16. This event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Edington Center, located at 133 Livingston St., Asheville, and is made possible through sponsorship from local businesses such as Best Buy Metals, ABC Supply, Walmart, and New York Life agent Joshua Brown.
The need for school supplies has escalated this year due to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which disrupted many families. Eblen Charities has also responded to this crisis, holding a school supply distribution event at their warehouse, where they offered items such as backpacks and pencils at no cost. Kathy Soule from Eblen Charities noted that the demand is significantly greater this year, necessitating the coordinated efforts of community organizations.
Another opportunity for families in need is on Wednesday, August 13, when there will be another school supply distribution from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness Opportunity Center, located at 216 Ashland Ave., Asheville. This proactive approach by local organizations ensures that students in the Asheville area have access to the necessary tools for a successful academic year.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Free school supplies giveaway held in Asheville, organized by AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness and Community Center.
- Increased community need for school supplies following Hurricane Helene.
- Donations received from AmeriHealth, YMCA, and local private donors.
- Previous giveaway by Eblen Charities under “Ingles Tools for Schools.”
- Upcoming Backpack Giveaway on August 16, aiming for 1,000 backpacks filled with supplies.
Upcoming Events
- Backpack Giveaway on August 16 at Edington Center, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- School supply distribution on August 13 at AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness Center, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Background
School supply giveaways have become increasingly vital efforts in Asheville, particularly following natural disasters. Hurricane Helene has displaced many families, prompting local charities and organizations to step in with immediate assistance. The elevated demand for educational resources highlights how crucial community support is in ensuring that students can return to school prepared and equipped for learning.
FAQ Section
When will the next school supply giveaway take place?
The next school supply distribution is scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness Opportunity Center, located at 216 Ashland Ave., Asheville.
What is the Backpack Giveaway?
The Backpack Giveaway, organized by John McClung Roofing, aims to distribute 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies. It will take place on August 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Edington Center.
How have local organizations responded to the need for school supplies?
Local organizations, including AmeriHealth Caritas and Eblen Charities, have conducted school supply distributions in response to an increased need due to Hurricane Helene. They are engaging community members to gather donations and support.
Summary Chart
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Supply Distribution | August 13 | 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | AmeriHealth Caritas Wellness Opportunity Center |
| Backpack Giveaway | August 16 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Edington Center |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Asheville Hosts Annual Backpack Giveaway for Local Children
John McClung Roofing Hosts Annual Backpack Giveaway in Asheville
Buncombe County Faces Severe Winter Weather and Shelter Demand
Asheville Supports Residents After Tropical Storm Helene
Asheville Community Receives Essential Services from Local Church and Convoy
Asheville Families Prepare for Back-to-School Activities
RiverLink Receives Grant for Native River Cane Restoration
Asheville Families Gear Up for School Year with Community Support
Tools for Schools Drive to Support Local Children
Appalachian Mountain Health Hosts Family Health Fair
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Free School Supplies Giveaway
- MSN: Eblen Charities School Supplies Giveaway
- 828 News Now: Backpack Giveaway in Asheville
- WLOS: Eblen Charities Responds to Supply Needs
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene (2018)
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
