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Under crystal blue skies Sunday Tryon area residents came out to the Trade Street Diner where the business was offering free coffee, Wi-Fi access and much-needed hugs.

The Trade Street Diner announced their plans to help the community in a social media post:

“We love y’all,” the post reads, expressing deep affection for the community. A staple in the area, the diner plans to offer free coffee, Wi-Fi, and hugs at their shop, allowing people to reconnect and communicate with loved ones.”

The business had also become a drop-off point for essential items donated for others such as pillows, blankets and towels, which will be donated to a local shelter to support those displaced by the storm.

“Let’s come together and cast a ray of sunshine,” the post said. “The storm may have taken much away, but for those that have made it through, we still have each other.”

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Trade City Diner providing Wi-Fi, hugs as lifeline for residents affected by Tropical Storm Helene