The Grace in Action Fund has now raised $180,000 to help Western North Carolina families stay housed with direct rent, mortgage, and utility assistance.
Launched in July by Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in partnership with the Land of the Sky Association of REALTORS® (LOTSAR), the fund builds on Grace Covenant’s proven track record of emergency relief. In the months immediately following the storm, the church distributed more than $5.5 million in support to over 2,500 people. With the Grace in Action Fund, that emergency response has evolved into a long-term recovery initiative designed to meet families where they are as rebuilding continues.
And the demand for assistance is clear. On a single day in September, 100 people came to Grace Covenant seeking help, and nearly $64,000 in housing support was distributed that same day. As all the applications are processed and verified, that amount will grow.
“The need is immense,” said Rachel Brown, President of LOTSAR. “We are proud of the $180,000 raised so far, but it’s clear our work is far from done.”
To celebrate this progress and build momentum for what’s ahead, the community is invited to Housing Hope: A Night of Jazz & Gratitude on Tuesday, October 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hilltop Event Center (21 Restaurant Court, Asheville). Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, festive drinks, and live jazz by Chuck Lichtenberger, Mike Holstein, and Justin Watt. The event is sponsored by Moving Mountains Property Group, Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty, and GreyBeard Realty.
“This event is about joy and gratitude,” said Marcia Mount Shoop, pastor of Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church. “We’ve seen firsthand how housing support can change lives, and it’s important to pause and celebrate the generosity that makes this possible. At the same time, we know the need continues. Coming together in celebration helps us renew our commitment to keep families housed.”
Learn more about the Grace in Action Fund and how you can help at lotsar.org/grace.