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East Flat Rock Rises: Local Business Owner Leads Flood Recovery Efforts


Ty Townsend of Top Tier Fabrication Turns His Devastated Shop into a Community Lifeline, Seeks Support to Rebuild

Contact: Rebecca Meyer

Phone: 619.504.3278



EAST FLAT ROCK, NC, Oct. 16, 2024 Following the catastrophic floods from Hurricane Helene that ravaged homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, the East Flat Rock community is banding together to rebuild. One of the hardest-hit areas was Top Tier Fabrication, owned by Ty Townsend, whose business and equipment were severely damaged. Townsend’s shop, however, has since evolved into more than just a business—it has become a vital hub for the community’s recovery efforts.


Townsend, along with nearly 60 volunteers, has turned Top Tier Fabrication into a distribution center, delivering food to hospitals, clearing trees to open roads, and providing essential supplies like water, propane, and gasoline to neighbors in need. “It’s just neighbors helping neighbors,” Townsend said. “There’s no one else coming, so we’re doing what we can to support each other.”


Townsend expressed heartfelt gratitude to First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, NC, for their immediate response. “They didn’t hesitate,” Townsend said. “They provided supplies right away and asked me to use my shop as a distribution center for the community. Their support has been a lifeline.”


Without flood insurance, Townsend is now seeking $25,000 to replace crucial machines, a control panel, and office equipment. But for him, this is about more than just reopening his business. Townsend plans to offer free repair services to others affected by the flood, helping with equipment, cars, and even larger projects like repairing damaged driveways and bridges to restore access to homes.


Once his shop is fully operational, Townsend is committed to offering jobs to others in the community who lost their livelihoods due to the disaster. “Getting the shop running again isn’t just about my business—it’s about helping people rebuild their lives,” Townsend explained. “I want to provide jobs for others who are struggling right now, giving them a chance to get back on their feet.”


As volunteers continue to clear debris and distribute supplies, Townsend and his group, humorously dubbed “The Goon Squad,” are leading the effort to restore East Flat Rock.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Townsend rebuild his shop and continue his work supporting the community. “Every dollar counts,” Townsend said. “Whether you donate or share, your kindness will help us keep serving East Flat Rock.”




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