Cisco Crisis Response Partners with Local Nonprofits to Rebuild Homes in Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene

Cisco Crisis Response is working with local leaders and nonprofit partners to repair and rebuild homes damaged by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. The Asheville Regional Coalition for Home Repair (ARCHR) has emerged as an innovative, collaborative response to the needs of low-income households whose homes were damaged but not destroyed by the storm. ARCHR is powered by a partnership of four leading local nonprofits, each bringing complementary strengths and expertise in home repairs. Cisco is investing in this coalition to centralize and streamline home repair for uninsured or under-insured, low-income households.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated Western North Carolina in late September 2024, Cisco Crisis Response (CCR) has been instrumental in coordinating efforts to repair and rebuild homes. The Asheville Regional Coalition for Home Repair (ARCHR) has emerged as a key player in this initiative, focusing on low-income households that were affected but not destroyed by the storm. The coalition, powered by four leading local nonprofits, is centralizing and streamlining home repair efforts with the support of Cisco's $1 million investment.

The Asheville Regional Coalition for Home Repair (ARCHR) comprises Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, Community Action Opportunities, PODER Emma, and Mountain Housing Opportunities. Each partner brings unique strengths, including administrative and financial expertise, site assessment and HVAC specializations, mobile home and language skills, and experienced delivery repair services. Home repairs address critical needs such as roof and porch repairs, mold removal, plumbing, and accessibility improvements, with costs ranging from $7,000 to $25,000 per household.

Cisco's investment in ARCHR is enabling the use of digital tools to centralize intake, assessment, and prioritization. This has significantly improved the speed, coordination, and equity in disaster response. As of early July 2025, ARCHR had completed repairs for 73 homes and had 65 more in progress, surpassing its original repair goals for the year by 20 homes.

Teresa, a former nurse, exemplifies the impact of ARCHR's work. After Hurricane Helene, Teresa lost power and water due to the storm's damage to her septic tank and plumbing. ARCHR's coordinated efforts restored her safe and accessible living conditions. Over 600 applications have been submitted, with more than 80% of applicants qualifying as low-income.

Despite surpassing goals, demand far outpaces current resources. A projected need for an additional $8 million over the next 3-4 years underscores the ongoing need for support. Cisco's 40 Communities initiative, which began with WNC, aims to expand on CCR's progress and commitment to housing resilience. The initiative will also focus on building essential infrastructure, developing digital skills, and co-creating innovative solutions to build a resilient community.

Investors and financial professionals should note that Cisco's investment in ARCHR is part of a broader strategy to support communities affected by natural disasters. The use of technology and partnerships highlights Cisco's commitment to long-term community development and resilience. Cisco: Rebuilding Homes and a Resilient Community in Western North Carolina^[1]