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Sevier County, in collaboration with the cities of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, announced a joint donation of $500,000 to Mountain Ways to support disaster recovery efforts in neighboring communities impacted by Hurricane Helene on Wednesday, November 20th.

Of the total amount, $250,000 will be allocated to Cocke County, while the remaining $250,000 will be distributed among Carter County, Greene County, Hamblen County, Hawkins County, Johnson County, Unicoi County, and Washington County in Northeast Tennessee.

This contribution aims to provide support for rebuilding and recovery efforts in these counties, which experienced significant damage from the storm. The funds will be managed by Mountain Ways, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the hospitality and values of the Appalachian region to those affected by natural disasters and tragedies. A check presentation was held on November 20 at the Sevier County Courthouse, where representatives from Mountain Ways and local leaders from Sevier County, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg gathered to mark the occasion.

Mountain Ways Executive Director Lori Moore said, “This donation from Sevier County and the Cities of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville means so much, not just to our organization but to all the people we’re able to help. Having this kind of support from our neighbors, who understand firsthand what it’s like to experience disaster, is truly impactful. In 2016, they were there for us, and now we’re honored to turn that support around to help those in need. This donation really speaks to our culture – we’re a culture that gives back, a culture of people who love our neighbors. It’s been our tradition in the Appalachian Mountains since the settlers moved in, and now we’re just continuing that sense of giving back and providing hope to our neighbors.”