NC is still struggling to get back to normal, weeks after Helene

North Carolina (CNN) – It’s been a month since Hurricane Helene caused tens of billions of dollars in damage across several states. Western North Carolina has been hit hard, and as cleanup efforts continue, residents hope to return to some sort of normality.

Although Hurricane Helene is long gone, its aftermath is still very visible. As the damage caused by this storm runs into the billions, nearly a dozen musical artists came together to hold a benefit concert to raise money for the devastated areas.

“There was a video of an area in western North Carolina that I knew well, and when it was posted, I didn’t know what I was looking at. And it was amazing to me that I knew this area that I grew up in and that I no longer recognized it,” said Eric Church, the concert’s featured artist.

Country music artist and Asheville native Chase Rice felt the need to help his home, saying, “We have a platform and if God gives us this opportunity, we can use that platform to raise money for people who need it. It’s the best thing you can do in life.” Program officials say all proceeds will go to hurricane relief efforts, including businesses trying to reopen.

The concert was a huge success, attracting over 82,000 people and raising over $20 million. Carolina Panthers owners Teppers also covered all concert expenses, including stadium rental costs and concessions.

As for the week ahead, students in Asheville are returning to classrooms on a modified schedule. “We won’t be focusing on academics right away, but we will really take some time to reconnect with friends to gradually get back to a sense of normality, and then we’ll return to our full schedules on Wednesday. ” said Asheville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman

According to Dr. Fehrman, none of the schools were damaged during the storm, and all schools have electricity, internet and running water. The water from the pipes has not been deemed safe to drink, so students cannot drink it yet.