Reuniting Photos with Families
- inquiries800
- Dec 2, 2024
- 1 min read
After Hurricane Helene devastated Asheville, Taylor Schenker embarked on a heartfelt mission to reunite families with photos scattered by the storm. She created the Photos from Helene Instagram page, which now serves as a virtual lost-and-found for over 200 images collected from debris, search and rescue teams, and community members. Families reconnect with precious memories, such as a photo of a late child or long-lost holiday snapshots, often with the help of neighbors tagging each other in the comments. For many, these photos symbolize hope amidst widespread destruction. Schenker’s efforts are driven by her belief in the value of these fragments of life before the hurricane. Moments of reconnection—such as a mother overcome with tears seeing her childhood photo online—highlight the emotional impact of her work. Despite Asheville’s ongoing recovery, Schenker’s project celebrates resilience and joy, turning the storm’s narrative from loss to the preservation of treasured memories.

Image via CBS
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