In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which left widespread devastation across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, the College of Nursing stepped up to provide critical disaster relief to impacted communities. Demonstrating the College’s deep commitment to community service, students, faculty, staff, and alumni have come together to deliver medical care, essential supplies, and emotional support to families in need.
Mobilizing a Volunteer Response in Erwin, TN
One of the largest relief efforts involved a team of 33 volunteers connected to the College of Nursing, including nurse practitioners (FNP students and faculty), registered nurses, and undergraduate nursing students. Led by faculty member Christina Brown, the team traveled to Erwin, TN, to provide urgent medical care and support at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. This was organized in collaboration with Sister Mary Lisa Renfer of St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic (SMLC).
“I volunteer for SMLC as my clinical practice,” shared Brown. “Sister Mary Lisa got a call from one of the churches in Erwin asking for her to come and help them. That is how we ended up there.”
The relief team, which included faculty and students from the College of Nursing, provided care to over 40 patients. Nurse practitioners offered medical assessments and treatments. At the same time, student nurses and registered nurses supported triage, patient check-in, medication distribution, and acted as patient navigators. These volunteers helped families struggling with not only the physical toll of the hurricane but also the emotional trauma of loss and displacement.
“All of the nurses, staff, providers, and students that volunteered have said that it was an absolute privilege to help these patients and families and care for them medically but also be with them emotionally,” said Brown. “Many were experiencing the worst time of their lives; some were still dealing with the trauma of losing loved ones and the trauma of literally hearing people call for them that they could not get too – it was very harrowing”
Nurse Navigators Lead Critical Efforts in Flood-Stricken Areas
At the same time, the College’s Community Registered Nurse Navigators (CRNNs) in Northeast Tennessee were on the frontlines, providing disaster relief in areas hardest hit by the storm. CRNNs Alison Lundy and Ashley Walton, who normally focus on improving vaccine outreach and education, expanded their role to address immediate community needs.
Lundy delivered essential supplies to flood victims in Carter County, working alongside Walton, who coordinated the delivery of two trailers full of donated goods with the help of her husband.
“Being a nurse navigator has always been about serving the community in whatever way is needed,” said Lundy. “In the aftermath of the hurricane, it was inspiring to see everyone come together—neighbors helping neighbors.”
Walton echoed this sentiment: “Helping with flood relief was a natural extension of what we do. Whether it’s breaking down barriers to healthcare or supporting communities during a crisis, we are here to help.”
CRNN Maria Fishwick, stationed in the East Tennessee region, organized a donation drive for families in Cocke County. She was able to collect over 1,000 trash bags, headlamps, and first aid supplies, which she personally delivered to affected areas. Fishwick continues to coordinate ongoing donations for relief in Newport.
“These communities mean everything to me,” Fishwick shared. “It’s already hard enough to navigate health challenges in rural areas but adding disaster recovery on top of that is unimaginable. I’ll continue to support these families as long as I can.”
College of Nursing Donation Drive in Knox County
Closer to home, the College of Nursing has been a hub for coordinating relief efforts across the Knox County region. Caroline Layton, advisor at the college, and Jada Russell, Executive Director of Enrollment Management and Assistant Professor of Practice, have spearheaded a donation drive to collect food, water, clothing, first aid supplies, and hygiene products for families devastated by the hurricane. In partnership with countywide efforts, the College is rallying volunteers, students, and community members to contribute whatever they can.
“We’ve seen an incredible outpouring of generosity,” Layton said. “The Volunteer spirit is alive and well.”
_____
CONTACT:
Kara Clark (865-974-9498, [email protected])