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A western NC nonprofit is on the ground in Jamaica, providing critical assistance following the devastation left behind by Hurricane Melissa.

Former U.S. Army Green Beret Adam Smith started "Savage Freedoms Relief Operations" as a result of Hurricane Helene, when his family was cut off from access to the outside world in Black Mountain, which resulted in his daughter and daughter's mother having to be airlifted out.

Smith said veterans in general have special skillsets based around helping with disaster relief and people who have been through critical life-altering situations.

Despite the tragedy in Jamaica, Smith said everyone there has been nothing but gracious and grateful.

"Their spirits are so high," Smith said. "It’s amazing to have a conversation with someone who just lost

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