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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Saxapahaw, NC

Home Care Saxapahaw, NC

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Saxapahaw Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Saxapahaw, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Saxapahaw, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Used ABC successfully in 2022. Using again in 2025. When needed in an emergency ABC was operationally seamless with first contact leadership and care coordinators. The technology infrastructure is very helpful. But most importantly the care team sent to the home was supportive and cared for our Mom. We will use ABC again.”

Diane L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can not say enough good things about the high quality care my Mom received from the ABC caregivers & staff for the 4 months she was under their care. We were very pleased with the support and coordination received from Emily and Leslie.The caregivers assigned were excellent and provided the best care to Mom and the entire family during a difficult time. I highly recommend ABC for anyone in need of home care.”

libby C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Abigail was amazing! She is a wonderful resource and incredibly kind. We are forever grateful for her help!”

Tina B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I love working for Always Best Care! They're understanding, have a wonderful team in the office that helps make our jobs easier as caregivers! Easy to talk to and communicate which makes the days so much easier! Flexibility and communication is key! Amazing Clients, Amazing Staff, Amazing caregivers!! Yeah, pretty amazing!! ????”

Katie B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I really enjoy working at ABC. They are incredibly accommodating and flexible with my schedule. Plus, there are always chances to take on extra shifts and earn some additional income.”

Kaylah R.
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“I am a caregiver with Always Best Care and have been since May of 2024. I love working for Always Best Care because it is an extremely flexible work schedule which is amazing as a new mom. The office staff are extremely friendly and very communicative with you about any new clients and shifts. They also are great with thoroughly training employees. I would 10/10 recommend working for Always Best Care if you are looking for a flexible but reliant job with amazing staff!!”

Michelle H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is the best employee I've experienced thus far!! They really care about their employees. They offer a flexible work schedule and ongoing training. They're also always there to help if you have any questions, making sure you always feel comfortable in the environment your in.”

Kristin B.
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“Great place to work.Good communication Great people to work for!Very flexible and works around your schedule.I absolutely love working for ABC!!!”

Brandi M.
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“Always best care is an amazing place to work at, I have been doing PCA work for years and never had a more professional company.”

london C.
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“My name is Arionan Frinks and I love working at Always Best Care and helping out with clients and there family in hard times when there not able to be there with there family member 24/7.”

Arionan S.
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“My name is Cierra Fernandez I’m a caregiver for always best care I enjoy working with the team and providing care for our families”

Johanna W.
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“Is been a great experience working with ABC, we care for our clients and they appreciate all we do.”

Carmen L.
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“I love working at ABC because they are easy to work for and they care about their employees. They work with you to get what needs to be taken care of when you have issues you need help with.”

Ginne R.
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“I have been at Always Best Care for a long while now! A wonderful company to work for! They are a great work place”

Angalene T.
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“They were very welcoming and helpful with everything.”

Kayana M.
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“I have been working for this company for about 6 months. I absolutely love it. The office staff are amazing and always there for any questions or concerns.”

Heather M.
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“Great work place. Very flexible, especially for a college student like myself.”

Amilya
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“I would consider anyone to work with this company they are excellent people to work with”

Connie R.
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“I love working for ABC it’s like a big happy family ❤️❤️❤️”

Toy J.
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“Abc is a great senior service, i love having the opportunity to help others in need and meeting new families making them happy!”

Jordan K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“As a caregiver with Always Best Care, I have to say it’s a great place to work. Flexible hours and great communication. Great benefits as well.”

Shelton J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been working for ABC for two years now, and I am very grateful for my position. The staff are acceptable, the clients are lovely, and the environments are professional. I highly recommend PCAs and CNAs to apply.”

Samantha T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is a friendly company and get to work for! They always put their clients first!”

Alexia
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TESTIMONIALS

“It has been a pleasure to work for always best . Great communication.”

Pamela T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“A great company to work. They make sure you are trained to care for your clients. If you need a refresher or additional training it is provided.”

Elizaabeth T.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Saxapahaw, NC?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Saxapahaw, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Saxapahaw, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Saxapahaw, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Saxapahaw, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Saxapahaw Island Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Saxapahaw, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Eddy or visit Cedarock Historical Farm, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Saxapahaw, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Saxapahaw, NC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Saxapahaw, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Saxapahaw, NC

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Saxapahaw, NC

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Saxapahaw, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Saxapahaw, NC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Saxapahaw, NC

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Mebane Ridge Assisted Living
  • Springview Assisted Living
  • Scott Ralph Group Home
  • Atlantic Life Transitions
  • Give Christ Adult Care Home Inc
  • Chatham Ridge Assisted Living
Home Care Saxapahaw, NC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Saxapahaw, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Saxapahaw, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Saxapahaw, NC

Latest News in Saxapahaw, NC

Disaster declaration: Residents of 8 central N.C. counties can now seek state aid for Chantal

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Individuals in central North Carolina counties whose homes and belongings were damaged by heavy rain last month from Tropical Storm Chantal can now seek state-funded financial grants for temporary assistance.The aid for residents in eight counties near the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is available after Gov. Josh Stein issued a ...

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Individuals in central North Carolina counties whose homes and belongings were damaged by heavy rain last month from Tropical Storm Chantal can now seek state-funded financial grants for temporary assistance.

The aid for residents in eight counties near the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area is available after Gov. Josh Stein issued a state disaster declaration on Tuesday.

What You Need To Know

As much as 9 to 12 inches of rain fell in the region at the end of the July 4 weekend, sending some rivers to record-breaking levels, affecting public water systems, and damaging homes and businesses. There were at least six storm-related deaths, law enforcement agencies said.

Stein also wrote President Donald Trump and the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Tuesday asking them to issue a federal major disaster declaration that would accelerate federal aid to help local governments with the costs of rebuilding roads and utilities, and for removing debris. Public assistance damage estimates have already totaled more than $42 million, according to Stein's office.

Stein's state-of-emergency declaration three weeks ago in 13 central counties was designed to jump-start the process to seek federal recovery assistance.

Stein's letter on Tuesday to Trump and FEMA said that Chantal's rains at the time resulted in more than 100 roads in the region being impassable because of flooding, sinkholes and structural damage.

Dozens of flood-related rescues were carried out in Durham and Orange counties. Water service was interrupted in Mebane, and Hillsborough's water treatment plant was offline for several days. Many displaced residents ended up in hotels.

Individual aid from the state for items such as rental housing assistance, personal property replacement and medical expenses can be sought at disaster recovery centers in Orange, Durham and Alamance counties. Home and business owners already can seek U.S. Small Business Administration loans.

Haw River Assembly responds to Chantal flooding with free well water testing

Following one-in-a-thousand-year storm, residents urged to test wells and avoid floodwaters due to serious contamination risks.NORTH CAROLINA, USA — In the wake of devastating flooding caused by Tropical Storm Chantal, the Haw River Assembly is urging residents to avoid all floodwaters and take immediate precautions to prot...

Following one-in-a-thousand-year storm, residents urged to test wells and avoid floodwaters due to serious contamination risks.

NORTH CAROLINA, USA — In the wake of devastating flooding caused by Tropical Storm Chantal, the Haw River Assembly is urging residents to avoid all floodwaters and take immediate precautions to protect their health.

“PLEASE avoid contact with flood waters,” the Haw River Assembly said in a press release. “There are dangerous currents and underwater debris. Always wear protection if you come into contact with mud, as it poses serious health hazards and requires extreme caution.”

The organization said the early estimate classifies this flooding as a one-in-one-thousand-year storm. It has left homes and businesses submerged, caused widespread power outages affecting more than 30,000 residents, and forced rescues at shopping centers, bridges, and apartment complexes.

“Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this tragic flooding,” the organization said. “Climate change is driving these storms, and we will keep pushing lawmakers to take action to protect against the next big storm.”

To assist affected residents, the Assembly is launching Free Well Water Testing sites beginning Thursday, July 10. Residents with wells potentially impacted by the flooding can pick up water testing kits at the following locations and times:

Thursday, July 10

Alamance County: Steel String Brewery at Pluck Farm

6901 NC-54, Mebane, NC | 1:30 – 6:00 PM

Orange County: Duke Campus Farm

4934 Friends School Rd, Durham, NC | 1:30 – 6:00 PM

Friday, July 11

Chatham County: Chatham County Public Library

197 NC Hwy 87 N, Pittsboro, NC | 1:30 – 5:45 PM

Saturday, July 12

Alamance County: Saturdays in Saxapahaw Farmers Market

1711 Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Church Rd, Saxapahaw, NC | 5:00 – 8:00 PM

Tropical Storm Chantal disrupts Camp RiverQuest program

Tropical Storm Chantal leaves a trail of destruction, forcing Camp RiverQuest to cancel due to flood damage.SAXAPAHAW, N.C. — Even days after Tropical Chantal rolled through Alamance County, signs of its power remain — especially along the Haw River. Trees, limbs, and debris still clog the bridges in Saxapahaw, a stark reminder of the storm’s impact.Among the hardest hit was ...

Tropical Storm Chantal leaves a trail of destruction, forcing Camp RiverQuest to cancel due to flood damage.

SAXAPAHAW, N.C. — Even days after Tropical Chantal rolled through Alamance County, signs of its power remain — especially along the Haw River. Trees, limbs, and debris still clog the bridges in Saxapahaw, a stark reminder of the storm’s impact.

Among the hardest hit was Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co., which found much of its property underwater, including the dock and their beloved summer program, Camp RiverQuest.

“It’s definitely better than it was,” said Camp Director Chandler Holland. “But there was a huge mud deposit that happened at the dock here.”

Pointing to the nearby boat shed, Holland added:

“That’s our boat shed right there. You see the leaves on the door — it went up to there.”

The floodwaters didn’t just damage buildings — they swept away much of what made Camp RiverQuest possible.

“Unfortunately, 98% of the camp stuff was in our building, and it’s not salvageable,” Holland said.

For many local children, that meant the heartbreaking realization that camp — a summer highlight — was suddenly canceled.

“My mom sat me down at the dining room table and told me — there definitely isn’t going to be any camp this morning," said camper Francis Demayo.

“After my nanna told me what happened, I was like, ‘whoa.’ I hope everyone is okay," proclaimed Kallyn Newcomb.

“I saw how high the water was. It was like over-the-bridge high,” said Mattias Heindel.

While Week 3 of camp had to be postponed, staff quickly found ways to reschedule all affected campers. Holland says the community support has been overwhelming.

“We had 12 campers scheduled for week three, and if I remember correctly, all 12 of them have been rescheduled for other weeks — which is amazing. That means we’re able to keep that funding for everything else we have to do," said

Despite the challenges, spirits remain high among the young campers.

“I was really happy to start, but I’m also sort of sad for them because their livelihood is devastated," said Aster Demayo.

While it’s not quite business as usual in Saxapahaw, the campers and counselors are determined to keep the summer spirit alive — one paddle stroke at a time.

Residences, businesses in Saxapahaw flooded after Tropical Storm Chantal; Cleanup efforts underway

Cleanup is underway in the town of Saxapahaw, where the Haw River surged beyond its banks due to Tropical Storm Chantal. In spite of the widespread flood damage from Chantal, Saxapahaw residents are staying positive after the storm."There's so much damage that came with this one," said Kyle Decker, a volunteer helping with cleanup efforts. "The river got so high. "It's a lot of work and it ain't gonna happen overnight."Chantal hit Saxapahaw hard, washing away roads and vehicles and devastating buildings...

Cleanup is underway in the town of Saxapahaw, where the Haw River surged beyond its banks due to Tropical Storm Chantal. In spite of the widespread flood damage from Chantal, Saxapahaw residents are staying positive after the storm.

"There's so much damage that came with this one," said Kyle Decker, a volunteer helping with cleanup efforts. "The river got so high. "It's a lot of work and it ain't gonna happen overnight."

Chantal hit Saxapahaw hard, washing away roads and vehicles and devastating buildings. The storm has left folks like Patrick Gwinn stunned.

"I didn't think it was gonna quite be like this. When the rain started coming, it came in really, really heavy, and the rest is history," Gwinn added. "All I saw was just the top of the roof of the truck floating around when I looked out the hall windows. But it wasn't a pretty sight."

But resiliency is on full display, as neighbors are helping neighbors.

"The community really comes together in times like this," said Gabe Vargo, another volunteer and resident. "We just help each other out with everything. That's what makes it a special place."

While the recovery may take days, even weeks, there’s a spirit here that’s hard to shake.

"Well, we've prayed this morning. This is a very spiritual place and we all have prayed for each other," Decker said. "What we do is we put our bootstraps on and we go, and it'll be okay, we'll get there. It'll just take some time."

Residents and volunteers say accepting donations for their community. For more information on how you can donate, click here, or you can drop off donations at Cup 22 cafe at 1711 Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Church Road, Graham, North Carolina 27253. After hours drop off is outside the Haw River Ballroom next door.

Little Big Moments: A Sweet Spot in Saxapahaw

“I had ice cream for breakfast!” The girl beamed at me.I was volunteering in Saxapahaw with a work crew. I had just edited the “Cooling Satation” sign, then passed out a boxed water to this young friend, whose unusual breakfast was the result of emptying the freezer during the second day of the power outage.Another visitor to the church told me that his puppy watered trees with such leg-lifting enthusiasm that he sometimes fell over!There’s nothing funny about the damage caused by Tropical D...

“I had ice cream for breakfast!” The girl beamed at me.

I was volunteering in Saxapahaw with a work crew. I had just edited the “Cooling Satation” sign, then passed out a boxed water to this young friend, whose unusual breakfast was the result of emptying the freezer during the second day of the power outage.

Another visitor to the church told me that his puppy watered trees with such leg-lifting enthusiasm that he sometimes fell over!

There’s nothing funny about the damage caused by Tropical Depression Chantal. The name Chantal reminded a fellow volunteer of a Russian-French painter and a lyric from the Weepies: “We float like two lovers in a painting by Chagall.” The Weepies also sing, “The world spins madly on.”

Even as stronger storms result from climate change and the federal government cuts funds for emergency disaster response. This action will efficiently cut short lives. I know our situation can create weepy feelings of helplessness and despair.

But like the Weepies, “We make hope from every small disaster.“

Volunteering is one way to make hope. The word “volunteer” comes from the Latin term “velle,” which means “to wish.” I wish these storms didn’t happen and people didn’t suffer. My heart aches for the grieving people in Texas just as it did for western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.

So, I wished to help in my community. I joined Black and White, young and old helpers, to fix sandwiches in the church kitchen for volunteers cleaning up the muddy buildings. While working, we told dog stories and sang songs about peanut butter and jelly. Tomorrow, I’m bringing ice cream.

Andrew Taylor-Troutman is the author of the book with Wipf and Stock Publishers titled This Is the Day: A Year of Observing Unofficial Holidays about Ampersands, Bobbleheads, Buttons, Cousins, Hairball Awareness, Humbugs, Serendipity, Star Wars, Teenagers, Tenderness, Walking to School, Yo-Yos, and More. He lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he is a student of joy.

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