Finding Home Again

When Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction through Appalachia in September 2024, the Rittenberry's were left without a home. Through the catastrophe, smaller rural areas were often overlooked by the media.

Many families lost their livelihoods in a matter of hours, but Sarah’s story is a reminder that while devastation may be long-lasting, it can hold the most fulfilling moments along the way.

Students Hunter Mehaffey, Kayla Tuttle, Jackson Catlett and Natalie Ziolkowski embarked on a journey to capture their story, highlighting the devastation of Waynesville, North Carolina.

If you’d like to support Sarah’s family, please consider donating to their GoFundMe.

Produced By: Hunter Mehaffey

Audio Engineer: Jackson Catlett

Production Support: Kayla Tuttle

Camera Assistant: Natalie Ziolkowski