Savage Freedoms Relief Operations – Unwavering Support
Following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many people mobilized in order to help victims. I also reacted, but in a tiny way, by offering equipment, access to temp accommodation and support where I and my colleagues could. A friend of mine, EJ Snyder, was also on the ground. He was traveling all over Western North Carolina, reporting on the devastation and raising awareness. EJ informed me about the different necessities in destroyed regions and suggested that I bring a kit to a mission in Swannanoa.
He told me to connect with a buddy of his by the name of Adam Smith and “tell him that EJ sent you.” He mobilized and was offering a support service that was staffed by ex-military. That is all I needed to investigate more.
I made my way with the small amount of cold weather gear I had collected from people in my personal network to see if we could offer some help. EJ had warned me;
“He’s an absolutely huge guy that’s running the show down there, you can’t miss him”
I was not prepared for what I saw. The scale of the operation was enormous and was being run with military precision in every way. I contacted some support staff who attempted to connect me with Adam. Immediately, I set eyes on Adam without having to ask where he was. Sitting behind a makeshift desk, Adam was on the phone, leading this operation from ground level.
Savage Freedoms Relief
A name that has gained profound respect among the devastated communities of Western North Carolina is Savage Freedoms. Founded by Adam Smith, who is an ex-Green Beret with a mission to empower communities in times of crisis. Savage Freedoms is a beacon of hope. Their unwavering commitment to serving those impacted by natural disasters is clear, not just in their immediate relief efforts but also in the sustained aid they provide long after the storm has passed.
How did it all start?
It was more personal for Adam, and he was up to his neck in leading the men and woman who showed up. I was introduced to Taylor, his Fiancee who had been on the ground by Adam’s side from the very beginning. She told me how Adam thought his little girl and ex wife were one of the victims of Hurricane Helene, and that due to their location, they were probably gone. Adam made some calls, got a chopper in the air and witnessed his own little miracle.
“Nobody was hurt. Everybody was alive. My little girl was running in this grass field coming to see dad.” Smith Said
Savage Freedom Relief Operations Was Born!
Hurricane Helene’s Devastation and Savage Freedoms Relief Operations Rapid Response
As Hurricane Helene – a category 4 storm – slammed through North Carolina, it left behind a trail of destruction that was unprecedented in history. Homes reduced to rubble, communities without power, and families without basic necessities. In response, Savage Freedoms Relief Operation mobilized quickly, driven by Adam Smith’s military precision. According to Adam, he has a tight community of Special Forces personnel and all it needed was to ask for help and the network answered. He couldn't comprehend its development, but it escalated into a massive military operation. Very quickly, a team came together that was deeply rooted in a sense of service.
The team consisted of seasoned veterans, volunteers, and crisis experts, Savage Freedoms was on the ground within hours of the storm’s passing. Their initial operations were centered on conducting rescue missions, providing medical aid, and distributing emergency supplies. They delivered food, water, and medical supplies to hard-hit areas that were cut off due to road damage and flooding.
“No Egos Needed Here”
One thing that is clear from the people that stepped up and from Adam is that if you come with an Ego, you will quickly be caught out. What’s needed is selfless service, and that is exactly what I witnessed when I was there.
Ongoing Support in the Aftermath of Helene
While many organizations often depart once the storm’s initial chaos subsides; Savage Freedoms takes a different approach. Their mission extends beyond immediate relief. They are committed to rebuilding lives.
Long after Helene, they are still working. They are working to restore infrastructure, clear debris, and provide essential resources like generators and temporary shelters. The needs change day by day, and as with any military-type operation, one must improvise, adapt, and overcome.
One of the most significant efforts has been the coordination of air rescues and flying in supplies to the hardest hit areas. It started with one colleague with a chopper and then expanded quickly. Staffed by volunteer doctors, nurses, and ex-military veterans and former first responders. This operation has been crucial in addressing immediate needs, and the ensuing recovery efforts. It’s this blend of military expertise and genuine compassion that sets Savage Freedoms apart. Adam maintains that is not about one man, and he hates notoriety. It is about the hearts and minds of the community of volunteers.
Extraordinary Stories of Selfless Service
The heart of Savage Freedoms’ operations is found not just in their leader, but in the ordinary people who stepped up without expectation of reward or recognition. Many volunteers, some of whom had their own homes destroyed, put their personal losses aside to serve others. These individuals did not turn up to feel good about themselves, they just wanted to serve and without pay.
They come from a cross-section of humanity—veterans, medical professionals, tradesmen, and local residents—who came together under one mission: to serve those in need. Whether distributing blankets to displaced families, providing wellness checks and shelters, or coordinating logistics for food distribution. The common thread is their shared spirit of service.
Adam Smith’s Vision: Hope – Live In the Light Of God, and Be Of Service
Adam Smith’s vision for Savage Freedoms was born from his experiences as a Green Beret, where the ethos of serving others is a fundamental principle. He emphasizes that Savage Freedoms Relief Operations aims not only to be a force in immediate disaster relief. They exist to foster resilience and community empowerment.
Smith’s leadership has inspired a growing network of like-minded individuals who are not content with just responding to disasters. Savage Freedoms aim to prevent and mitigate future crises by training community members in emergency response, first aid, and survival skills. His team also organizes regular community drills and educational workshops to ensure preparedness for any upcoming challenges.
The Path Forward: Building Resilience, One Community at a Time
As Western North Carolina begins the long journey of recovery, Savage Freedoms remains committed to being a part of that process. Their efforts are not limited to a single event; they aim to establish a sustainable network of support that can be activated in any future crisis. Plans include rebuilding homes, restoring local businesses, and continuing to provide mental health support to those affected by the trauma of Helene.
Savage Freedoms Relief Operations’ work serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the face of devastation, human kindness and dedication can light the way. Their commitment goes beyond words—it has a commitment backed by relentless action and a community spirit that refuses to be broken.
If you wish to support Savage Freedoms or get involved, they are actively seeking volunteers, donations, and resources to continue their vital work in North Carolina and beyond.
Click on the link – https://www.savagefreedoms.com/savageops
