Submitted Photo Pilot Jeff Holowienko is ready to make a vital delivery to hurricane-affected areas in North Carolina.

Items donated by Chautauqua County residents have been flown to North Carolina as relief efforts from Hurricanes Helene and Milton continue.

On Sunday, Jeff Holowienko, a local pilot, flew a plane loaded with supplies from the Chautauqua County Airport in Jamestown to the Avery County Airport in Spruce Pine, N.C., 50 miles from Asheville. The flight is part of the ongoing efforts initiated by Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. and county airport officials.

“We have seen incredible generosity from our community, and every contribution makes a difference,” Wendel said. “Let us come together in support of those who are in desperate need of our help.”

Great Lakes Flight School donated fuel for the flight while a county Airport Commission member also contributed fuel. Local pilots and volunteers are delivering supplies to North Carolina.

“We are incredibly grateful for the community’s support, which makes it possible for us to assist those in need during this challenging time,” said Shannon Fischer, county airport manager.

Since the launch of the donation campaign, Chautauqua County has mobilized efforts to collect essential supplies and monetary donations to support those impacted by the recent hurricanes. The Avery County Airport continues to serve as a donation collection center and a hub for relief efforts. Originally, more than 150 planes a day were delivering supplies, with the airport utilizing 12,000 gallons of aviation fuel in six days to facilitate rescue flights. As time goes on the donations are slowing down.

“The people affected by these hurricanes are facing unimaginable challenges, and our support can provide them with the essential supplies and resources they desperately need,” said Fischer. “Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant impact in helping our neighbors rebuild and recover.”

For more information on how to contribute, visit CHQGov.com/aid. Monetary donations are also welcomed and can be sent directly to the Avery County Airport Authority at Avery County Airport Authority, C/O Samuel Calvert (Chairman), 202 Little Cow Camp Road, Newland, NC 28657.

For more information, call Fischer at 716-661-8930.