Swannanoa, NC (WLOS) -- Helene survivors in Swannanoa are reflecting on gifts of housing. A team of volunteers for weeks have been working on building 12-feet by 16-feet cabins.
The units are insulated and come with a mini-fridge and microwave.
"So far we've been able to put 20 people in them," said Beth Dalton, one of the volunteers spearheading the build.
Dalton said the non-profit National Mental Health Alliance is behind the effort with founder Justin Peck.
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"I keep struggling to come up with the words to give the thanks to these people who have been here from day one," said Orlondo Morris a recipient of one of the units on his grandmother's property.
Orlondo's still finishing out the unit but said he plans to sleep in it with heat this Christmas Eve. He's excited to have the unit and is making a spot for his beloved bunny.
"For me, Christmas is about being able to give," said Dalton. "A restoration of hope for these families."
Dalton said there's a waitlist of about 20 more families.
"Each one costs around $6,000 to build," Dalton said.
A huge sign hangs on the lot on Old US Highway 70. It shows all the companies contributing to the effort.
The housing project has also been able to connect with families via multiple Facebook pages where those who can help can connect with families in need.
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But there are plenty of Helene survivors in Swannanoa who are simply grateful for groups that just showed up.
"At Christmas, I'm giving thanks to literally thousands of people," said Mitchell Beddingfield, from his Swannanoa home.
"Initially Samaritan's Purse came in and mucked the mud out. They took the walls out four feet up. Amish installed insulation and sheetrock," said Beddingfield about his home renovations.
Beddingfield said others donated kitchen appliances like a stove. He's been living with his Pastor but hopes to be back in his home in January.
The Swannanoa community continues to take recovery day by day.