Kevin Schwab, CEO of Givens Communities, updated storm response, resident services and supply needs with nonprofit senior living organization.

He reiterated that residents are safe and accounted for, team members and health services staff are onsite at all locations and routine wellness checks are taking place. Regional cellular and Internet communication remains largely unavailable, so Facebook is being used for general updates.

LeadingAge NC, an association for continuing care communities across the state, is coordinating a broad regional relief effort in conjunction with Givens Communities. Givens Communities has ready transportation and is sharing provisions to assisted living facilities in and around Asheville as is safely possible.

Givens Estates, Asheville
Downed limbs and storm debris are almost cleared. Approximately 130 residents have relocated to other locations with family and friends. Immediate needs are for nursing volunteers, donations of drinking water, sanitary wipes and disposable bed pads. Contact 828-274-4800 or deliver to 20 Serviceberry Circle, Asheville.

Givens Highland Farms, Black Mountain
Washouts are being repaired and a general cleanup is continuing. Meal service has not been interrupted. Generators are functioning to supply power. Water outages in Swannanoa Valley could be lengthy. Volunteers with Carolina Emergency Response Team Operation Airdrop made a helicopter drop of water supplies at mid-day. Some 80 residents have left to temporarily stay with family and friends.

Givens Gerber Park, South Asheville
A donation of water and groceries from neighboring Publix at Givens Gerber Village boosted pantry supplies yesterday. MANNA Foodbank delivered food items this afternoon. Nonperishable food, bottled water, hand sanitizers and other staples are being accepted at 60 Gerber Road.

Givens Great Laurels, Waynesville
Affordable Communities staff met with MANNA Foodbank at Western Carolina Farmers Market, who then provided a delivery of supplies. Team members are onsite assisting residents, who are receiving food and basic needs. Water and power are operational, some cellular service is available but no Internet or cable. Residents are coming together in common areas for activities and companionship.

 All Givens Locations
Family members of essential staff including infants and young children are staying in our workplaces. Baby formula, toddler and kids’ food and crackers are greatly welcomed. Pet supplies also are needed.

“Thank you all for your support or offer of support,” said Schwab. “We can’t say enough great things about the heroic efforts that have been shown by the team members at each location. We are extremely grateful.”