North Carolina community unites to support hurricane relief efforts

November 1, 2024 By    
Photo: Reagan Bonnette
Reagan Bonnette with Manny Zavala of Newland, North Carolina. (Photo: Stringer Oil & LP Gas Co.)

Local residents and businesses of western North Carolina banded together to provide relief to the community through efforts related to propane needs following recent challenges faced in the region.

Initiated by Jessica Thompson in a private Facebook group and spearheaded by Reagan Bonnette, president of Stringer Oil & LP Gas, this grassroots effort has garnered overwhelming support from various stakeholders.

Thompson, who founded the Tactical Moms group and whose husband is involved in helicopter supply drops to hard-to-reach areas, sought assistance for propane gauges, among other items. Recognizing the urgency of the needs, Bonnette quickly responded with a commitment to help with propane supplies.

Photo: Reagan Bonnette
Propane supplies packaged for delivery. (Photo: Stringer Oil & LP Gas Co.)

Warner Jones from Harper Industries and Ty Denham from F.W. Webb collaborated to raise funds for propane cylinders. With their support, 43 cylinders were secured to aid the community.

Additionally, Christian Battle from Battle Propane donated four 30-pound cylinders along with heaters and hoses. Dan Richardson, president and CEO of Conger LP Gas, contributed cash and purchased sleeping bags for adults and children.

As the outreach expanded, Thompson worked closely with local leaders, including Lori Denley and John Caterson, to further assess needs on the ground. This collective effort led to establishing a communication channel known as Burnsville Donations Group Chat. This channel allows for real-time updates and coordination of supplies.

Bergquist also donated regulators intended for local propane businesses. The regulators were redirected to Young’s Fuel Service, a family-owned propane business in North Carolina struggling to recover.

Photo: Reagan Bonnette
Reagan Bonnette with John Caterson of Blossman Gas in Burnsville, North Carolina. (Photo: Stringer Oil & LP Gas Co.)

“This initiative has evolved far beyond one individual,” says Bonnette. “It’s been incredible to witness everyone come together to support our neighbors in need. The outpouring of generosity has been inspiring, and we are grateful for every contribution.”

On a recent visit to North Carolina, Bonnette spent a day delivering supplies to several key locations, including Young’s Fuel Service in Bakersville and to Bald Creek Elementary School.

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