Alyssa Vigneault: A Hurricane Hero

Alyssa Vigneault turned her own backyard into a lifeline for those in need after Hurricane Helene. As founder of Rising Light Relief, she launched a grassroots initiative focused on feeding and supporting the most vulnerable—particularly the elderly and disabled—in the most rural corners of Mitchell and Yancey Counties.

After commenting on a World Central Kitchen social media post, urging them not to forget the smallest communities, Alyssa received a call just weeks later: “I’ve been asking who we need to connect with—and all three names I’ve been given are yours.” From that moment on, Rising Light became a key WCK partner in the region.

At the height of their response, her team was delivering hot meals and critical supplies to over 450 households, many of them completely cut off from other forms of aid. Today, even as national support winds down, Alyssa is committed to continuing the mission of Rising Light Relief—now preparing and delivering meals themselves to those who still aren’t food secure.

Alyssa, your compassion, leadership, and quiet tenacity have brought light to so many during their darkest days. We are proud to honor you as a Hurricane Hero.