A unique charitable initiative launched by Lowe’s Home Improvement aims to tackle two pressing needs in Western North Carolina this Thanksgiving season, providing meals while boosting storm-impacted small businesses.
The national retailer selected local restaurants hit by recent severe weather to prepare 3,000 holiday meals, distributing them across six store locations throughout the mountain region.
Many participating establishments witnessed significant disruption to their operations, with some experiencing structural damage while others functioned without water for multiple weeks during what typically marks their busiest season.
Community response proved substantial at the Marion location, where residents started gathering well before the scheduled distribution time, demonstrating widespread interest in the program.
For participating businesses like Zella’s Deli & Restaurant in Swannanoa, this partnership offers a chance to recover from financial losses. “This is huge,” noted Brian Stouz from Zella’s, pointing out how storm warnings drastically reduced tourist traffic during peak season.
The innovative approach helps channel corporate resources directly into affected communities, supporting both residents needing holiday meals and businesses working toward recovery.
Through this program, Lowe’s demonstrates how retailers can multiply their community impact by engaging local partners rather than outside vendors.
