When Crisis Hits, Community Rises: Supporting Burner Disaster Response

April 7, 2025

Disasters don’t just destroy homes and roads—they challenge the human spirit. After Hurricane Helene struck, as the scale of devastation became clear and the long road to recovery began, something familiar happened: the Burner community stepped up.

Burners Without Borders is proud to award $2,300 to support Burner Disaster Response (BDR), a grassroots effort led by longtime Burner Andy Owens, also known as Fixxer. For over a decade, Fixxer has run Rootpile, a Burning Man theme camp celebrating Bluegrass music and Appalachian culture. When his hometown was hit hard by the storm, he quickly repurposed Rootpile’s infrastructure—kitchen trucks, and heavy equipment into a real-world relief effort.

Since November 2024, BDR has been on the ground clearing debris, restoring access to homes, delivering supplies, hosting volunteers, and helping those in need.

Here’s one small story of success shared by BDR: 

In Newland, NC, an elderly couple raising their granddaughter and great-grandson lost everything in the flood. Partnering with High Country Caregivers, BDR cleared the wreckage and prepared the site for a new mobile home.

It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community refuses to look away.

Right now, BDR is focused on the recovery and rebuilding phase, which is often the longest and most overlooked part of disaster response. The process of recovery and rebuilding can last for years, and it’s where the deepest and most lasting impact happens. Your support, whether through donations or volunteering, can make a real difference. Every dollar helps fuel trucks, repair equipment, and purchase the supplies needed to keep this work moving forward. 

To contribute or learn more, visit: www.burnerdisasterresponse.org