Leon Nixon’s Catering recently dedicated two weeks to assisting flood victims in western North Carolina, providing meals to over 11,000 people displaced by Hurricane Helene. Led by manager Lynn Trueblood and supported by a team of volunteers, the crew made two trips—on Sept. 30 and Oct. 4—transporting equipment, food, and fuel, all funded by Nixon’s Catering and community contributions. The project was a collaborative effort involving Leon Nixon’s Catering, Nixon’s Restaurant, and Nixon’s Fishery.
Upon arrival in Boone, they encountered widespread devastation, including 30,000 people without power and local stores destroyed by floodwaters. Using their mobile catering truck, the crew served 1,000 to 1,100 people daily, totaling over 6,500 meals in the first week. Their second trip focused on delivering meals to satellite locations, eventually reaching more than 11,000 people.
Senator Norman Sanderson, representing Chowan’s district, was in regular contact with Trueblood, as recovery efforts faced numerous challenges, including a water treatment plant submerged under 20 to 40 feet of water and ongoing power outages. The crew also witnessed cars buried in mud, homes washed away, and landslides burying everything in their path.
With the weather turning colder, the community is in desperate need of blankets, warm clothing, propane heaters, and other essential supplies. Nixon’s Catering plans to return with their portable kitchen to continue relief efforts, as the need for assistance in the region is expected to persist.