Maiden-Based Group Delivers Campers to Helene Survivors

Operation Helo has already rehomed 18 families in campers - and they plan to house at least 100 more.
James Scott,

MAIDEN, N.C. — β€œIt’s incredible what we’ve been able to do over the last three weeks,” says Eric Robinson.

Robinson is the co-founder of Operation Helo. As the name suggests, the Maiden-based group was among the first to take to the skies, bringing critical supplies to survivors trapped by Hurricane Helene.

β€œWe ended up distributing over two million pounds of aid,” Robinson beams, We had 90 helicopters flying. People really got behind the mission.”

But now that many roads have re-opened, they’ve found new needs – and a new focus.

β€œThere were so many people left without a place to stay, without shelter, period,” says Robinson, “The mission has pivoted to where we’re providing campers.”

Campers bought with funds raised by donations – and campers aren’t the only things they’re bringing.

β€œWe’re providing a generator to run these,” Robinson adds, “We’re providing pots, pans, dishes, sheets, sleeping bags, toilet paper, feminine products, you name it. We’re trying to think of it, how do you start over?”

Operation Helo is partnering with people like Tracie Hall with Wicked Jeeps NC to bring temporary housing to those who have lost everything.

β€œI think we’ve hit pretty much every town out there,” says Hall.

β€œIt’s just being able to look at them and know that you’re helping just a little bit. It touches your heart. I can’t even explain how much it means to us just to be able to be a part of this and help with this.”

The group has already rehomed 18 families in campers – and they plan to house at least 100 more.

β€œWe’re going to keep going until we have gotten to everybody or we run out of money,” says Robinson.

Robinson and Hall aren’t getting paid – all of the money raised goes straight to the cause – but they say changing lives one camper at a time is all the reward they need.

β€œYou know that you’re just making a little tiny bit of impact and a good start to their day with that,” Hall says with a smile.

β€œI think everybody that I’ve delivered trailers to, not one person hasn’t cried – and I’m right there crying with them,” adds Robinson.

With the holidays coming up, it’s important that people keep giving.

β€œThink about Christmas for these kids. Think about Christmas for these parents,” says Hall.

β€œJust think about future needs for everybody, because this is going to go on a long time.”