Mountain Made
"The beauty of the mountains called me near,
Where I found this place so free, so clear.
Where I learned how a strawberry ripens slow,
to appreciate the peace as cattle roam.
In the Blue Ridge, I breathed the mountain air,
And found my heart would linger there.
These mountains have shaped me, wild and unafraid,
I belong to them— I am mountain made."
-Anonymous
Mountain Made: Rebuilding Lives, Restoring Memories
Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, something precious was lost. When Hurricane Helene tore through our region, it didn’t just claim homes and livelihoods—it shattered lives. Appalachian families who had lived here for generations were left with little but the rubble of what once was.
But this land, this resilient place we call home, has always held the power to heal. The mountains still stand, steadfast and strong. And like these mountains, the people of this region are made of the same enduring spirit. That’s why we are launching Mountain Made—a project to bring these families back, reconnecting them to the beauty and peace that can only be found in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Mission of Mountain Made
We know that recovery goes far beyond rebuilding homes—it’s about restoring the heart. Our mission is to bring families who were most affected by Hurricane Helene together again. To offer them a space to heal, to rediscover the peace in nature that has always been their sanctuary, and to create new memories rooted in hope and community.
Why We Need You
We are part of this community too, and we feel the weight of this loss deeply. No one in this area is untouched. Our homes have been destroyed, our friends have lost everything, our children have no schools to go back to. Even a simple trip to the grocery store is a reminder as our parking lots that were flooded remain coated with loose dirt, clouds hitting our lungs and nose as we take each step, thanking God that the markets have power again.
But together, we can rebuild. Together, we can make sure that no family is left to struggle in the shadow of disaster. By supporting Mountain Made, you’re not just giving a donation—you’re giving families a chance to rediscover the beauty of life, to feel the warmth of community, and to believe again in a future that holds promise.
Become Part of the Story
The people of the Blue Ridge are strong, but they need your help to rise again. Every dollar you give to this initiative goes directly toward helping these families heal, reconnect, and rebuild. Together, we will make sure that all who have endured this tragedy can once again feel the pride of being Mountain Made.
Spread the Word
Would you like to share your story or nominate an individual to receive assistance? Please email outreach@barefootbabyfoundation.org. To share information on social media, please find @barefootbabyfoundation and/or tag #MountainMade on Instagram.