• Taylor Schenker, a Canton resident, is helping families recover cherished photographs scattered by Hurricane Helene near Asheville, North Carolina.
  • Searching through debris along the Swannanoa River, she found intact photos of middle school teams, pets, and weddings, preserved by waterproof glossy paper.
  • Schenker emphasizes the value of these items, saying, “You take photos because you have a moment you want to remember, and so they all seemed just special.”

A North Carolina woman is helping families restore cherished memories by reuniting them with photographs scattered by Hurricane Helene . Taylor Schenker, a resident of Canton near Asheville, has taken it upon herself to recover and return these sentimental items to those who lost them, offering a vital connection to their past as they rebuild their lives.

Photographs Found Amid Storm Debris

The destructive storm left homes in ruins, including that of one of Schenker’s close friends. Determined to assist, Schenker began searching through debris along the Swannanoa River in hopes of salvaging anything meaningful. Among the mud and uprooted vegetation, she discovered photos remarkably intact due to their waterproof glossy paper. These images included snapshots of middle school basketball teams, beloved pets, and wedding moments—each a fragment of someone’s life.

Reflecting on the significance of these photos, Schenker told CBS News, “You take photos because you have a moment you want to remember, and so they all seemed just special.”

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

MORE NEWS: Man Arrested at Trump Doral After Secret Service Scuffle

Using Social Media to Reconnect Families

Moved by the idea of lost memories, Schenker launched an Instagram page, Photos from Helene, to share her discoveries and reconnect families with their keepsakes. The page, which has already facilitated the return of over two dozen photos, often sees emotional responses as individuals recognize themselves or loved ones in the shared images.

So far, Schenker has personally recovered about 100 photos and has also received additional contributions from local search and rescue teams. Through her efforts, families separated from their belongings find not only pieces of their history but also moments of comfort.

The Emotional Impact of Recovery

Schenker emphasizes the significance of hand-delivering these photos whenever possible. “Being able to hand something so special to somebody and give them a hug—because they’ve likely lost their entire home—is such a privilege,” she said. For families who have relocated, she mails the photos to ensure they are reunited with their memories.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

Following ongoing debates over border security and immigration policy in 2026, do you support stricter enforcement measures?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from The Dupree Report, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

Schenker’s work highlights the power of community and compassion during times of crisis. To support her efforts or explore ways to assist those affected by the storm, follow Photos from Helene on Instagram. Every small connection can help rebuild what was lost.

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10