Transcript:
Donor supplies that flooded into the area, including solar panels, batteries and other equipment that could help power areas without electricity, poured into the area after Hurricane Helen destroyed western North Carolina last fall.
Hebson: “Many large solar companies … they will make these very generous, large, in-kind donations to these devices after the storm.”
But Catherine Hebson, a nonprofit’s Footprint Project with the Disaster Recovery Nonprofit, says some equipment will be wasted risks – if it doesn’t find the way for those who need it.
So her group formed a free store in western North Carolina, which distributed some donated solar equipment.
Heberson: “So it’s kind of like we’re going to be matchmakers and bringing these devices to where we want to use.”
Some people use the device to make temporary power when rebuilding. Others are creating larger off-grid systems to provide reliable energy for the long term.
Hiberson: “Sometimes we just give a separate panel or 4 MC4 cables because that’s what they need to do the system.”
Therefore, by donating donated equipment to where needed, free stores help support the long-term recovery and resilience of the community.
Report Credit: Sarah Kennedy/Chavobart Digital Media
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