Sevier County Makes Major Donation To Help Flood Victims
Those still trying to recover from the devastating flood that occurred on September 27 & 28 are getting some help from a nearby friend. Earlier today, Sevier County officials announced the donation of $500,000 to the Mountain Ways Foundation. This donation was made along with the cities of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Of the $500,000 donated, Sevier County says that half of that money, or $250,000 will be allotted for Cocke County. The remaining $250,000 will be distributed among Carter County, Greene County, Hamblen County, Hawkins County, Johnson County, Unicoi County, and Washington County, the rest of the counties listed in the declared disaster area.
A check presentation was made at the Sevier County Courthouse today with leaders from Sevier County, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and Pigeon Forge on hand. Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters said “Our neighboring communities have supported us in the past during our times of need, and we are grateful for the opportunity to return that kindness. We are proud to stand with them during this challenging time and remain committed to supporting their recovery and rebuilding efforts.”
Also speaking were the following:
City of Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner: “We are proud to support Mountain Ways with this donation to assist in flood relief and disaster recovery efforts in Cocke County. The Cocke County community came to Gatlinburg’s aide in so many ways after the 2016 wildfires and we are glad to be able to give back to them in their time of need.”
City of Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson: “The City of Gatlinburg is honored to continue supporting our neighbors in Cocke County as they recover from the recent flooding. Following our efforts to collect and deliver donations to Newport, this contribution to Mountain Ways represents another meaningful way for us to assist in their community with disaster recovery efforts.”
City of Sevierville Mayor Robbie Fox: “The immense devastation caused by Hurricane Helene will likely take years to overcome. I am pleased that the City of Sevierville is partnering with Sevier County, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to help our neighboring communities recover and rebuild in the aftermath of this unparalleled storm.”
City of Pigeon Forge City Manager Earlene Teaster: “This is truly a great day for the City of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Sevier County. We haven’t forgotten 2016 and what the folks in that area did for us. They were some of the very first to come and assist us. I know they are terribly devastated right now, and it’s going to take years for them to recover—but they will. Every day, we think of them and what they’re going through. We’re just so happy to be able to contribute, even just a little bit.”
Mountain Ways Executive Director Lori Moore: “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.”
Mountain Ways, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization co-founded by Joe and Jessi Baker, will oversee the distribution of those funds.