Brandon Davis and his husband, Davie, opened their queer bar and event space, DayTrip, in Asheville, North Carolina, in August. Plans were underway for LGBTQ fundraisers, burlesque shows, and other community events, but Hurricane Helene devastated the area just over a month after the opening. The space was flooded up to the second floor, causing extensive damage.
Despite the loss, a GoFundMe campaign raised over $191,000 to help rebuild DayTrip and support its employees. Davis and Davie have been overwhelmed by the international support they have received. They plan to use the funds not only to reopen their business but also to help other small businesses and community members affected by the hurricane.
Davis is committed to continuing with the community events and support initiatives that he had planned for DayTrip. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved applications for assistance for residents of Buncombe County, where Asheville is located, signaling a long road to recovery for the area.
The couple hopes to begin rebuilding DayTrip in the spring, with the goal of restoring the business and providing a welcoming space for the queer community once again. Despite the challenges they have faced, Davis remains determined to create a safe and welcoming environment for all in the aftermath of the hurricane.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com