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.
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 Bennett Place 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 Durham, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 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.
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with.”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed,”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We”
“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by”
“My family’s experience has been wonderful with Always Best Care. They are an exceptional team of caregivers who really care about the well fare of their clients. They go above and beyond taking care of my parents and have been very professional and dependable. I would recommend ABC to anyone who needs a reliable and competent care team. Karen Lussi”
“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart to see the services being rendered to clients. Extra miles taken to make sure every client is well taken care, even in unpleasant weather conditions. The CEO and administrators were out in the snow last week picking up workers who were unsure of driving . I was glad to see this commitment, making sure families could sit back and relax. With no fear, I will recommend Always best to any family who needs awesome care for their love ones.”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office staff are great people, very helpful and always treat everyone with love and respect. Definitively it is a bless to work for this agency.”
“Wonderful company!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services was exactly what our family needed during a challenging time with our father. It all began with a fall, followed by an ER visit, and soon after, my sister and I found ourselves flying to NC to care for him and plan the next steps. Kathryn from Always Best Care was an absolute lifesaver! She guided us seamlessly through the process of finding the perfect independent senior living community for our father. Her extensive industry knowledge helped us navigate the additional health services he required with ease. Kathryn went above and beyond, consistently checking in and patiently responding to countless texts and emails from us. Thanks to her support, our father is now thriving in a supportive environment and is healthier than ever. We can’t imagine how we would have managed this journey without Kathryn’s expertise and compassion. Truly an incredible experience!”
“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of what someone living with dementia is like. This is such a horrible disease but this helps care givers understand the disease. Thanks so much!!”
“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”
“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things . I didn’t know it was that bad for them and it’s very sad , I will always treat them all with care and love no matter what because there dealing with something that’s really hard to deal with .”
“I had a great experience”
“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”
“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I now know what to do differently when working with my residents. I think A all caregivers should experience this training.”
“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”
“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”
“Great training”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and caring home health assistance to my mother who was recovering from an unexpected surgery. They were able to assist on incredibly short notice and made a difficult situation for our family much better. Each of their carers was exceptionally professional and attentive, especially Lori and Kylie who were incredible. I felt safe leaving my loved one in their care and appreciated that they went above and beyond to meet our needs. They provided regular updates to me and my family and made my mother feel so well attended, especially as she needed extra mobility and personal care help. I would absolutely not work with any other company, should we ever need home health assistance again. Highly recommend.”
“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me gain my mobility! They are all super nice and very helpful! Give them your trust, they have mine. If I ever need home help, it'll be through them!”
“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had to downsize due to an unexpected illness and Always Best Care (ABC) stepped in to make this possible. Kind, compassion, pleasant, friendly, joyful and talented professionals comprise those providing this service. I literally couldn’t have lived for at my assisted living since I had so many hospital visits each week. I didn’t want to go alone to these appointments and this freed my family from needless distress and worry about my wellbeing when they couldn’t be there. I highly recommend ABC since they are an essential component providing excellent and reliable support.”
“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in law transition into her new home after moving to Raleigh from Winston Salem. She has dialysis 3x a week and they have worked so hard to coordinate a schedule to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sherry continues to amaze me in how she is able to help figure out schedules and provide customer services in a kind and professional manner. We will continue to look to this wonderful service provider as her needs change and feel blessed to have them on site at Atri”
“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with. He was sincerely concerned about my mom and our family. He is an excellent listener and introduced me to Paige who is equally wonderful. Together they found a great place for my mother in a very short time. Paige was always available to speak on the phone and addressed my questions or concerns. I would recommend using this service for your loved one. Laura B of Raleigh”
“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed, and things changed constantly. My dad has a chance to live the rest of his life with dignity and my mom has a chance to live a fuller life because of the help we got from Kathryn and this team. They have a great network and valuable knowledge but what observed that makes them invaluable is that they care...and when you are on this situation I found that this is the quality that matters the most. Cannot thank them enough.”
“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”
“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We are very satisfied with his service and professionalism. He took his time and our requirements and found the perfect place. Highly recommend him and Always Best Care!”
“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many options it was confusing for me! Shawn and his team sent me several places to review and then accompanied me to visit independent living facilities. I appreciate the resources and information provided. Shawn, thank you for being focused on our family's needs and sharing your expertise. Your compassion and patience is so very appreciated!”
“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by far the best place I've worked our boss and staff are everything.????????????????????????????????????????????????????”
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.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
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.
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.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home 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:
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:
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 Sandy Creek Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
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 Nanas or visit Duke Homestead, 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.
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:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
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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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.
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 Durham, 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.
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:
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 Durham, 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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
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 Durham, 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.
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Durham EMT was concerned about a potential job loss after a clerical error at the DMV meant driving was no longer a legal option.Kaz Moore has worked as a first responder, driving ambulances and working in emergency medical services for five years.With the Real ID deadline looming, the Durham native went online months ago to m...
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- A Durham EMT was concerned about a potential job loss after a clerical error at the DMV meant driving was no longer a legal option.
Kaz Moore has worked as a first responder, driving ambulances and working in emergency medical services for five years.
With the Real ID deadline looming, the Durham native went online months ago to make an appointment to update their ID. The nearest appointment was months later in Lumberton; Moore booked it anyway.
ALSO SEE | As May REAL ID deadline looms, lines across central NC grow
Getting up at 4:30 a.m. and driving two hours away, Moore was told the paperwork was incomplete, with a DMV employee telling Moore they were missing a medical clearance note from a doctor.
Moore had epilepsy as a teenager and had brain surgery to fix the problem, and hasn't had any seizures since. With that medical history, though, Moore is required to have a doctor sign off to be able to drive. Moore was told that despite turning in a note of clearance from the doctor in years past, it never got attached.
Moore quickly called the doctor and had them send the note in.
Moore tried to call and confirm the office had received it, but the call wouldn't go through. Finally, Moore decided to drive back down to Lumberton for a second time, where an employee reportedly said the phones and fax machines were down, which was likely why the note was not received in the first place.
"I definitely cried in the DMV parking lot in Lumberton," Moore told ABC11, adding that lines were so long at that DMV location that people brought camping chairs to make the wait times more bearable.
Two more DMV visits and many phone calls later, the problem still had not been fixed.
Then, on Monday morning, Moore was getting ready to go into work and noticed missed calls from the captain.
"He said to check my email, and you know, I was already in uniform and everything, and it said that I wasn't allowed to drive county vehicles or my personal vehicle for county business," Moore said.
The email stated that Moore's license had been suspended for "Failure to Submit Medical Report," making Moore ineligible to drive at all.
Moore was forced to use up a day of vacation and stay home from work Monday. Moore's wife drove them to the DMV, where they tried to sort the problem out. Moore's supervisors at work even tried to help fix it, but with no luck.
So, Moore's wife reached out to the ABC11 I-Team. We reached out to our contacts at the DMV and explained the problem. Within an hour, we got an email confirmation that the error had been fixed. Moore's license suspension was cleared, and Moore could return to work.
Moore was grateful that the error had been fixed but described the process as "stressful" and expressed concern for others who might not have as many resources to get a problem like this solved.
The DMV has a list of tips if you plan to head there any time soon; you can find that list here.
An upscale Mexican chain has closed its last North Carolina location.Uncle Julio’s Mexican, which previously had two restaurants in the state — and both in the Triangle — has closed at The Streets at Southpoint mall in Durham.A sign posted to the restaurant’s front door shares news of the closure, when the location is called, a recording repeats the message: “We’ve made the difficult decision to permanently close this location. We appreciate your patronage over the years ...
An upscale Mexican chain has closed its last North Carolina location.
Uncle Julio’s Mexican, which previously had two restaurants in the state — and both in the Triangle — has closed at The Streets at Southpoint mall in Durham.
A sign posted to the restaurant’s front door shares news of the closure, when the location is called, a recording repeats the message: “We’ve made the difficult decision to permanently close this location. We appreciate your patronage over the years and being part of your community.”
The mall still has several dining options including Maggiano’s Little Italy, Co and The Cheesecake Factory.
Of the 10 most recent Yelp reviews of the Durham Uncle Julio’s, which were all posted since Friday, March 21, seven were one-stars.
The Durham shopping center was where Uncle Julio’s made its debut in North Carolina, in 2018. A year later, the chain opened a second location at Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh. The now-closed Raleigh restaurant moved into the former McCormick & Schmick’s, and the location had an 8,600-square-foot dining room and a 1,000-square-foot patio.
Texas-based Uncle Julio’s was acquired by the multi-brand franchise organization Sun Holdings in a foreclosure auction in December 2024.
According to the restaurant’s website, there are still Uncle Julio’s locations in 11 states, including Virginia and Tennessee.
It is the latest Mexican restaurant chain to close locations in the Triangle. On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in March, shuttered two North Carolina locations, including one in Cary.
Uncle Julio’s serves a variety of Mexican and Tex-Mex classics, including tableside guacamole, fajitas, enchiladas and tacos.
Its beverage program includes a selection of margaritas along with other traditional cocktails such as an espresso martini and paloma.
But arguably the star of the show at Uncle Julio’s is the chocolate piñata, a globe of dark chocolate filled with churros and fresh fruit.
Several new retailers have been announced for the Durham mall:
Have a question about your community you’d like answered? Or maybe a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Durham, NC (May 1, 2025) – A tragic house fire early Thursday morning in Durham led to the hospitalization of two people and the death of a dog, according to officials with the Durham Fire Department. The blaze erupted in the 500 block of Craven St around 3:45 a.m., prompting a swift emergency response.Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire and smoke pouring from the rear of the residence. Neighbors on scene urgently informed responders that three people were believed to be inside. One occupant managed to escap...
Durham, NC (May 1, 2025) – A tragic house fire early Thursday morning in Durham led to the hospitalization of two people and the death of a dog, according to officials with the Durham Fire Department. The blaze erupted in the 500 block of Craven St around 3:45 a.m., prompting a swift emergency response.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire and smoke pouring from the rear of the residence. Neighbors on scene urgently informed responders that three people were believed to be inside. One occupant managed to escape the burning home on their own. Another individual was rescued directly from their bed, while a third had to be pulled from a window.
Of the three residents, two were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed. The individual who escaped independently did not suffer any injuries. Unfortunately, responders confirmed that a dog perished in the fire.
Durham fire officials stated that the Red Cross is assisting at least one displaced resident. Crews remained on the scene Thursday morning as fire marshals continued investigating the cause of the blaze.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this devastating residential fire.
Incidents like this morning’s fire on Craven St serve as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and emergency readiness in residential neighborhoods. Homes with multiple occupants and pets can become especially hazardous in fast-moving fires, where every second counts.
Durham Fire Department crews responded quickly, and their actions undoubtedly prevented an even greater tragedy. Yet even with rapid intervention, the risks to both human life and pets remain severe when fires erupt during overnight hours, when occupants are likely asleep and unaware.
Smoke detectors, accessible exits, and practiced evacuation plans can all increase the chances of safe escape. In homes with elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, additional planning is essential to ensure everyone can be reached and evacuated quickly during emergencies.
Beyond physical injuries, house fires can leave lasting emotional and financial burdens. The Red Cross and other relief organizations often provide vital resources such as temporary shelter, food, clothing, and emotional support. Residents are encouraged to maintain updated emergency contact information and know where to turn for assistance following a disaster.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the Craven St fire, the Durham community is reminded of the need for vigilance, preparation, and compassion in the wake of household emergencies.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a serious incident, reach out to Local Accident Reports for support and resources.
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- After two days of events across the Triangle, the State of the People Power Tour wrapped up its North Carolina stop Wednesday evening with a rally in front of the General Assembly in Raleigh.Organizers of the nationwide tour aim to inspire civic engagement among Black voters and build grassroots momentum for change. The stop in North Carolina included ...
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- After two days of events across the Triangle, the State of the People Power Tour wrapped up its North Carolina stop Wednesday evening with a rally in front of the General Assembly in Raleigh.
Organizers of the nationwide tour aim to inspire civic engagement among Black voters and build grassroots momentum for change. The stop in North Carolina included a town hall in Durham, daytime workshops, and culminated with the Wednesday night rally on Jones Street.
"It cannot be just a moment, it has to be a movement," local organizer Diana Powell told the crowd.
Marcus Bass, a local partner for the tour and Deputy Director of the NC Black Alliance, said the event was meant to bring people together during a critical time in the political climate.
"It's been a very long week in the General Assembly," Bass said. "There's a lot of debate - not just around the budget - but around diversity, equity, and inclusion, and spending for minority communities."
ALSO SEE: NC court says moving election board appointments under state auditor can proceed for now
This year's legislative session has included multiple bills that are receiving pushback, including several targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. One of those bills, HB-171, advanced earlier in the day, just hours before the rally began.
"This is about everybody understanding that together, despite what we may think is happening to us individually, we can make a difference," Bass added.
Local organizers and national activists led chants, gave speeches, and held discussions throughout the event. State lawmakers also joined the rally to speak directly with attendees about ongoing legislation.
Angela Rye, a national organizer of the tour, said the entire effort is volunteer-funded and rooted in the belief that collective action can withstand any challenge.
"We want people to walk away feeling encouraged, hopeful, and capable of making change," Rye said.
Brad Simmons, a local organizer who attended the rally, said the tour's real impact will come from what happens next.
"If we continue to communicate and organize after this, that's where the real change will happen," Simmons said.
The "State of the People Power Tour" continued Wednesday with a full slate of workshops and a vendor resource fair at St. Mark AME Zion on Roxboro Street in Durham.
"We're ready to be in the community and be engaged," organizer Dr. Wes Bellamy said.
The tour includes Battleground North Carolina in its national lineup, making stops in the City of Raleigh and the City of Durham.
"The people here are as engaged as anywhere else, and we felt that it is of the utmost importance for us to be here," Bellamy said.
From reducing gun violence to mental health, community leaders led a series of discussions in Durham that aim to bring voters together as they learn to navigate today's political climate.
For Niki Alston, who lives in Henderson, one of the issues that's on her mind is budget cuts.
"We have people in a room that have lost their jobs because budgets have been cut," Alston said. "The nervousness comes because it is a lot at stake. It's affecting people in many ways. The optimism comes in because if you do know what's at risk, then let's work towards solutions."
ALSO SEE: Food Lion hosts volunteer events in 6 North Carolina locations, tackling food insecurity
Organizers say it's more important now than ever before to increase political engagement and empowerment nationwide.
For Durham native Aalayah Sanders, she said she's focusing on young people in the Bull City.
"There's a lot of gun violence taking place in our community, but also funding for things like housing, the food deserts, and different things that we see across Durham," Sanders said. "But most importantly, I think youth intervention and finding resources for our youth here in Durham."
Sanders led a discussion as part of the tour for millennials on how to be more civically involved and get out in the community.
"Sometimes we may think our voice doesn't matter or who's going to listen to us because we're just the young people in the group," Sanders said. "However, I think this message is going to all the leaders in this room to hopefully talk to their needs, talk to their children about using their voice and exercising it for change."
The State of the People Power Tour is now headed to Birmingham, Alabama, and plans to visit seven more cities in the coming weeks.
To learn more about the tour, click here.
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Cornell Watson for NPR Dedicated to Black music reclamation and exploration, Biscuits & Banjos is a new music festival curated by Grammy-winning artist Rhiannon Giddens. The festival took place this past weekend in Durham, N.C., and featured artists like ...
Cornell Watson for NPR
Dedicated to Black music reclamation and exploration, Biscuits & Banjos is a new music festival curated by Grammy-winning artist Rhiannon Giddens. The festival took place this past weekend in Durham, N.C., and featured artists like Taj Mahal, Infinity Song, Rissi Palmer and a Carolina Chocolate Drops reunion. It also incorporated Durham's Black history with a walking tour of Black Wall Street, panel discussions, square and line dancing, and a juke joint-themed party with drag performances.
Durham-based photojournalist Cornell Watson photographed the festival and shared his experience.
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
What motivated you to photograph this event?
Watson: Between Beyoncé's album Cowboy Carter and 803Fresh's song "Boots on the Ground," it's not hard to notice that Black people are rediscovering joy in the folk, country, blues and Americana music scenes. I loved the idea that Biscuits & Banjos unapologetically centered Black people, and I wanted to document how we were experiencing this invitation to reclaim and take up space here. As a Black person, this festival felt like a warm hug, and I think the photos support that feeling.
What's the story behind your favorite photo from the festival?
It's hard to pick one because the "Sweet Molasses Juke Joint" party photos are giving so much energy, but since I can only pick one, I'm going with the photo of the original members of the Carolina Chocolate Drops performing together for the first time in over 10 years. I wanted to make something to capture their energy, so I dragged my camera shutter to make light trails from the light that was reflecting on them and their instruments.
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Was there anything that surprised you while photographing?
Yes, I had no idea how fun square dancing was. It's like "Simon Says" for adults. There was so much happiness in the room during the "Friday Night Frolic: Square and Line Dance with Rhiannon & Friends." I'm going to recall all the smiles and laughter I saw next time McDonald's messes up my order and gives me honey mustard instead of pure honey.
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Cornell Watson for NPR
Any other interesting anecdotes or experiences you would like to share?
I love how the festival offered free programming, making it accessible to the entire community. Amythyst Kiah, Tressie McMillan Cottom, Michael Twitty and so many other great musicians and intellectuals all for free-ninety-nine. I spent so much time running between all the festival programming that I forgot to go eat some biscuits. My soul was full but my belly, not so much. Maybe next year.
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