GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Colquitt Foundation has donated $750,000 to Friends of the Smokies, hoping to fund recovery efforts after some Great Smoky Mountains National Park structures were damaged by Helene in September last year.

The announcement came Thursday. Representatives for Friends of the Smokies said the foundation gave the money to help the national park’s Cataloochee Valley recover, specifically.

“Hurricane Helene left its mark on Cataloochee Valley. Cataloochee Ranch was founded in that valley, and we feel a responsibility to help. We are honored to partner with Friends of the Smokies to contribute towards its revival and restoration,” said David Colquitt.

The Colquitts operate The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch, and they gave the donation on behalf of both of the mountain

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