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Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC

Biltmore Estate and its family owners launch Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC, pledging $2 million in immediate localized Helene relief alongside additional resource commitments and employee crisis support.

Asheville, N.C., October 7, 2024 – Amidst the immeasurable challenges our region faces following the devastation of Helene, Biltmore remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting our employees and community on the path to rebuilding.

While the estate remains closed due to storm damage, as well as technology infrastructure, power, and water outages, we are working behind the scenes during this crisis to assist with immediate needs of emergency response teams, our employees, and long-standing non-profit partners in this community.

“Western North Carolina has been our family’s home for more than 125 years, and we are devastated to see Helene’s impact on our region. We remain committed to supporting our employees and neighbors in the aftermath of this unprecedented storm and the long-term recovery efforts. Now more than ever, we must work together to stabilize and rebuild this community,” said Bill Cecil, Jr., President and CEO of Biltmore.

Today, Biltmore announces a financial commitment of $2 million through the newly established Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC to aid in Helene relief efforts. 

Inspired by the legacy of George and Edith Vanderbilt, the focus for this fund is to provide critical and immediate financial relief for people in need, including supporting employees in crisis, providing support to area non-profits aiding our region, and investing in the recovery of our community. 

Funds will be distributed by Biltmore’s community investment team to designated regional non-profits they have selected. 

For more info and ways the public can help our community meet the challenge, please see the resources linked on our website

We will all work together to recover from this unprecedented disaster.

About Biltmore

Established in 1895 in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore is as impressive today as it was more than a century ago. In addition to Biltmore House, the 250-room French chateau known as America’s Largest Home, this beloved National Historic Landmark includes 8,000 acres of gardens and grounds. Comprised of managed forests and farmland, a working vineyard, 20+ miles of nature trails, Antler Hill Village and its shops, restaurants, and award-winning Winery, the estate also features such splendid overnight accommodations as a four-star Inn, a charming hotel, and a distinctive collection of private cottages. All this, plus seasonal exhibitions, outdoor activities, and live entertainment make Biltmore a one-of-a-kind destination.

Privately owned and maintained by his descendants, Biltmore remains true to George Vanderbilt’s original vision: a self-sustaining Blue Ridge Mountain estate and a luxurious retreat amid year-round natural beauty. Whether as a day trip or multi-night getaway, to experience Biltmore is to experience a legacy of gracious hospitality, timeless elegance, and an inspired sense of wonder. To learn more, go to Biltmore.com.

Tropical Storm Helene Update: To reach a media contact, please email biltmorepublicrelations@gmail.com, a temporary email address while our internal network is still down due to the storm.