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Down to Earth owner Fran Garside helped deliver nearly 250 meals

 

TRYON—In the wake of Helene, a dedicated group of locals in Tryon, led by Fran Garside, the owner and operator of Down to Earth Garden Center, sprang into action to provide meals for Town of Tryon employees and residents of the Eastside. 

The effort was made possible thanks to the generosity of Garside, Naomi Cash, Delen Morgan and author Delia Owens, who contributed funds to make it happen. Patti Otto, owner of the Hare and the Hound, prepared the meals while Garside and Otto’s granddaughter, Elizabeth Rakes, delivered them.

“The community rallied together,” Garside said. “This was all made possible by Patti and the Hare and Hound being open, allowing us to provide for those who needed it most.”

Garside and her group mobilized quickly after the storm devastated homes and caused a region-wide power outage. Garside reflected on the past years of community service during Christmas Eve efforts, during which she prepared and delivered food boxes. 

“That prepared me for this moment, I think,” she said. 

With the help of Town of Tryon employee Shawn Miller, Garside ensured a smooth operation. Early on, she contacted Otto, asking if she could provide lunches for emergency responders. Otto readily agreed, and meals were prepared and soon ready for distribution.

“I’ve never done anything quite like this for the Town of Tryon before,” Garside noted. “But when I saw the need, I couldn’t sit back and do nothing.”

With additional support from local volunteers, the group distributed approximately 244 meals.

“Our goal was to check on the elderly residents and those facing hardships,” Garside said. “Many of them had a hard time getting food and supplies due to the storm. It was heartwarming to see the community come together in such a significant way.”

With Otto and her restaurant’s continued help, Garside ensured that meals were prepared and delivered to those who needed them. Garside acknowledged that the initiative would not have been possible without Otto’s and Shawn Miller’s support.

“Patti was a huge influence; her willingness to keep the restaurant open made it all happen,” Garside said.

As the community recovers from the storm, many volunteers remain committed to supporting and assisting their needy neighbors. Their efforts showcase the community’s strength and resilience, proving that compassion and unity shine through in times of crisis.