W.A.M.Y. Community Action

Empowering high country residents

  • Photo submitted. W.A.M.Y. recently secured a new residence for an elderly couple living in Mitchell County who faced the loss of their home due to severe structural issues and water access problems.
    Photo submitted. W.A.M.Y. recently secured a new residence for an elderly couple living in Mitchell County who faced the loss of their home due to severe structural issues and water access problems.

    W.A.M.Y. Community Action (Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, Yancey) is a non-profit organization, established in 1964, dedicated to providing disadvantaged groups with the necessary tools and support to forge a path towards a brighter, self-reliant future.

    The agency’s multifaceted approach addresses various aspects of need within the Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, and Yancey counties. From housing and weatherization services aimed at making homes safer and more energy-efficient to fostering educational and employment opportunities through the Family Development program, W.A.M.Y.’s impact is far-reaching.

    Leisa O’Mara, a representative of W.A.M.Y., recently highlighted the transformative effect of the organization’s work at a Mitchell County Board of Commissioners meeting.

    “We are here to help,” O’Mara emphasized in a presentation, marking the 60th year of the federal program. She detailed the agency’s housing and family development programs, including their success in assisting individuals in achieving educational goals and securing stable employment.

    W.A.M.Y. also addresses immediate needs through initiatives like the Little Free Food Pantry and community garden, which provide fresh produce and non-perishable food items to those in need. The organization’s Support Our Students (S.O.S.) program ensures that school-aged children have access to enriching summer camps, allowing their parents to maintain employment and financial stability.

    W.A.M.Y. has also helped eliminate the burden of skyrocketing electric bills for some Mitchell County residents.

    “We’ve helped 80 people already this year with their electric bills. People are having a hard time with those. People have had hefty bills come from Duke Power, and we’ve helped a lot with French Broad too,” said O’Mara.

    For individuals and families seeking assistance, potential clients are encouraged to visit W.A.M.Y.’s official website wamycommunityaction.org, where they can find detailed information on the various programs available, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

    For those looking to contribute to W.A.M.Y.’s mission, visit their website to donate and get information about volunteer opportunities.