Hi all! We wanted to give an update to our friends, family and supporters locally and across the globe about the impact of #HurricaneMatthew on our community:

The storm did cause a good amount of damage over the weekend for Kinston and surrounding communities, but that was only the beginning. We're expecting the Neuse River and surrounding bodies of water to overflood and crest at record levels, even larger than the detrimental levels of Hurricane Floyd in 1999.

All of our Kinston Teens members and Board of Directors are safe and accounted for. However, many have been affected heavily by the storm. Some are still without power, water, phone and/or internet service. Two families have had to evacuate their homes due to flooding; one family has already lost everything in their home from water damage; another family's three cars were totally damaged from flooding.

#Kinston is a town of resilience. We always defy odds, overcome struggles and defeat challenges. Although this one may be larger, we will get through it. We will rebuild, grow and stay united.

Please continue to keep Kinston Teens, our entire community, and all of Eastern North Carolina in your thoughts and prayers. Our organization is closely monitoring reports and affected areas and are providing volunteer assistance as needed. Follow Lenoir County Emergency Services and Kinston EOC for emergency updates regarding flooding throughout the week.

If you would like to donate specifically to our volunteer relief efforts for Hurricane Matthew, you may use the donation button below - or mail contributions to P.O. Box 2625, Kinston, NC 28502.

Thank you.