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The Blessing Barn

Produced by Allison Helms

Following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Swannanoa, a small town East of Asheville, was left reaping the consequences. Swannanoa local, Kristen Hicks witnessed this damage firsthand and immediately went into serving mode.

Kristen has found her strength from the storm by aiding those in the community around her. With the help of donations, she has found the resources to start a full-blown non-profit.

Kristen’s religious identity has been a growing force for her ministry, inspiring her care and love for all those in her community. Kristen illustrates the love of Christ through her Project, providing donations and other necessities to those heavily impacted in her community.

Kristen has supported people who come to the Blessing Barn, but also those who can’t come to them. Kristen raised $26,000 for The Blessing Bus. The Blessing Bus is the barn but on wheels, providing those in surrounding communities with goods that do not have the means to get to them.

Photo Story

Kristen Hicks, a Swannanoa local, started The Blessing Project as a recovery effort from Hurricane Helene. The Blessing Project has now grown to a certified non-profit and provides clothing, toys, food, and water at no price for those impacted by the Hurricane. Kristen and her five volunteers hold hands and pray as the Blessing Barn closes for the day. Praying for the Blessing Barn and the community members who have left prayer requests.
Kristen aids a local community member shopping for toilet paper and other household necessities inside the Blessing Barn.
Swannanoa and surrounding Asheville locals stop by the Blessing Barn to collect goods and look around at free items outside the barn.
Kristen shares a hug with her son, following their prayer at the civic center.
Kristen and her Husband Evan cross the street with their two kids towards the Civic Center in downtown Asheville, this is where the one year Hurricane Helene reunion will be held in September.
Kristen meets with an automotive worker to understand the problems with their blessing bus, which provides necessities to those who can’t come to the blessing barn.
Kristen and her volunteers share a laugh before beginning to pray out for the day at The Blessing Barn.
Kristen shares a smile as she watches her volunteers embrace each other after a long day of hard work.

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