"This Little Light" Project, Hurricane Helene Recovery in McDowell County, NC

"This Little Light" Project

In the days following the hurricane, when many families were left without electricity and running water, we launched the This Little Light project. Through this initiative, we distributed over 1,000 “off-grid” activity kits, including coloring books, board games, and other hands-on activities to children throughout McDowell and Buncombe County, helping them cope during those dark, difficult days.

As our community continues to recover, This Little Light has expanded. Our new family kits are designed to help families bond, find gratitude, and gain strength together. 

This Little Light Project FAMILY VERSION: Shining Hope for Families in WNC

The "This Little Light" Project is an initiative of the Barefoot Baby Foundation, designed to support families in Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. Originally created to provide "off-grid" activities for children without electricity, the project has now expanded into a family-focused program that encourages connection, creativity, and gratitude through our "read, write, create" kits.

What’s Inside the Kit?

Each kit is designed to help families bond, reflect, and create lasting memories during difficult times. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Mountain Made by Alyssa Hughes
    A beautiful children's book that tells the story of resilience in the Blue Ridge Mountains, helping families reflect on strength and hope in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

  • Gratitude Activity Sheet
    A guided activity that invites families to write down things they are grateful for or reflect on positive moments during challenging times. This simple but powerful exercise helps build a positive mindset and opens the door to meaningful family conversations.

  • Create a Banner Together
    Use the provided canvas, stencils, and paint markers to design a family banner with phrases like "Mountain Strong" and "WNC." Hang it proudly as a reminder of your family’s strength and your connection to this beautiful region.

Where Can I find them?

As of December 17th, kits have been dropped off at

1. Corpening Memorial YMCA, Marion

2. McDowell Public Library, Marion

3. Gogos Cinnamon Rolls, Old Fort

4. Grounded Coffee Shop & Deli, Marion 

[Kits have also been given directly to families at Head Start, Marion, and Mountain Laurel Montessori in Old Fort]

Why This Matters

The "This Little Light" Project was created to do more than just provide fun activities. It’s about bringing families together, allowing them to process their emotions through reading, writing, and creating, and fostering a renewed sense of community in Western North Carolina.

This initiative also symbolizes the strength of the Blue Ridge Mountain people, giving them tools to reconnect with each other and their community. Through this project, families will build new memories while honoring their past challenges and triumphs.

How to Support:

  1. Donate: Every contribution helps us expand the reach of the project.
  2. Share: Spread the word using #ThisLittleLightProject and #MountainStrong on social media.
  3. Volunteer: Help us assemble kits or participate in community events supporting local families. If interested, please email outreach@barefootbabyfoundation.org

Bring light, hope, and creativity to families today!
DONATE TO THIS PROJECT