SWANNANOA, N.C. (WNCN) — Kristen Hicks is the founder of the nonprofit, The Blessing Project. They serve the Swannanoa community every Tuesday and Thursday, providing essential items such as food, clothing, and hygiene products free of charge.

"I say all the time we were birthed out of a hurricane, but we're here for the hardships," said Hicks.

Lori Buckner is one of many volunteers supporting Kristen on this mission.

"It's amazing what she does to help all these people," said Buckner.

She says it has been tough to see people still struggling a year later.

"You see all kinds of stuff. You see people coming in that are down to their lowest, and they're in tears when they walk in, and when they walk out, there's a smile on their face because they got the things they need," said Buckner.

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