Several Chamber Members Participate in Cover Haiti Tent Drive

A week ago I received an email from an old friend that recently graduated from nursing school.  Prior to getting a job as a nurse she wanted to travel and enjoy life for a few months.  Then the earthquakes of Haiti happened and within 36 hours she was there, helping out in any way she could.  Now she is back in Asheville, working at Mission Hospitals and is organizing a tent drive to shelter as many people as she can in Haiti.  Several of our Chamber members are working with here to make this as successful as possible. 

Here is a note from Jessica:
My name is Jessica Hardy. I am an RN at Mission Hospitals, and have recently returned from 18 days in Haiti. Committed to helping ease what is preventable suffering, I am organizing a tent/tarp drive in the Asheville area. I have free shipping and an unaffiliated ground crew in Haiti to receive and distribute. I realize many of us have donated already, but please consider this opportunity.


Millions of Haitians are living in the streets, housed by bed sheets hung on rubble. As we approach the rainy season (May-July), followed by the hurricane season (July-October), the near future for many Haitian families is terrifying. If we do not help provide weather resistant shelter we will see another massive wave of death due to exposure. Those most vulnerable: infants, the elderly and the sick, will, without question, die.


As an involved, active, and moral community we have a responsibility to help those who cannot help themselves. Please bring a tent or tarp, new or used to one of the following drop off locations any time between March 1st and March 31st. This is your opportunity to share in such a way that you will save lives. From your basement or garage, straight to Haiti, you will be responsible for a family’s survival.


I am more than happy to share my story, more photos, my time. If I can be of assistance in your decision to Cover Haiti, please email me at coverhaiti@hotmail.com.


Kind regards,
Jessica Hardy, RN

Drop off locations:

• REI 31 Schenck Parkway. Asheville 28803. 828-687-3499
• Craggy Brewery 197 Hilliard Ave. Asheville 28801. 828-254-0360 Wed – Sat. 4pm – 10pm
• Terra Nostra 49 N. Lexington Ave. Asheville 28801. 828-281-0777
• Black Dome 140 Tunnel Road. Asheville 28805. 828-251-2001
• Nantahala Outdoor Center, US 74, Wesser, NC