Fuller Center Disaster ReBuilders was awarded $134,000 to rebuild the uninsured homes of low-income families who experienced Helene damage using volunteer labor and donated funds. One goal is to ensure that affordable homes are not lost and owners displaced because of lack of resources. Fuller also provides opportunities for volunteers, mostly church mission teams, to assist in the rebuilding effort. In WNC, Fuller is partnering with Montreat Conference Center, Blue Ridge Assembly and Calvary Church to house volunteer teams. It is also partnering with High Pastures in Yancey County and expects to build bridges with NC Synod ELCA and Mennonite Disaster Services, another effort that received EDRF support. Tara Scholtz and Elizabeth Brazas are pictured are Bartow Tucker and Nathan West. (fb)

Grant applications to the Ramble Charitable Fund are due April 1. The Fund was created to improve the quality of life in designated Buncombe County communities by supporting education, economic development, health care and other projects that promote community development. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for nonprofit organizations and public agencies for programmatic needs, capital needs and operating expenses. Requests that exhibit the greatest community benefit will be given the highest consideration. Learn more and apply at our website. (fb)