The total raised for the Ocracoke Hurricane Relief fund from the Silent Auction at Nativity in December is $4,310.00 – money that has been donated to the relief efforts at Ocracoke.
Bill and Sharon Conley visited Ocracoke just after Christmas; here is Sharon’s description of what they saw:
After Christmas, Bill and I and two family members spent a few hours in Ocracoke while awaiting the ferry to Cedar Island. Almost immediately after arriving from Nags Head, we saw disturbing evidence of Dorian’s September 6th “visit” to this island, a place that is 3′ above sea level. Approaching on Highway 12, we saw large mounds that looked like sand dunes. As we got closer, we realized they were huge piles of debris. Continuing on, we passed a mile or more of organized waste – broken appliances in one area, tools and lawn equipment in another, roofs, walls, and siding in another area. Miles of waste showing evidence of the disaster to people’s lives!
Riding around the town, there are hopeful signs of renovation. There are also signs of demolition, where renovation has yet to begin. It was a Sunday and the only open restaurant was a small pizza place with huge lines. A local grocery was also open. The residents we met said that the goal is for Ocracoke to be ready for tourists in March. Money is a necessity but manpower may be even more important. I am hopeful about their recovery. Their slogan: OCRACOKE STRONG!
If you did not manage to participate in the Silent Auction for Ocracoke, but want to donate to the relief efforts, go to the Outer Banks Community Foundation website and donate.
Thank you for your donations.
Beth Crow and Sharon Conley