GASTONIA, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A group of 15 officers from Gastonia and Belmont are helping search for missing people in the wake of Helene.  Blue Ridge Parkway to be closed indefinitely: National Park Service They are part of search and rescue efforts in rural areas like Buncombe, Swannanoa, Black Mountain and Asheville. As of Thursday, officers have reached 92 homes and verified that more than 200 people are safe, Gastonia Police said. Images from Gastonia Police of the devastation in Asheville Officers say they made it to 92 homes and confirmed the safety of 200 people while distributing water, food, and other needed supplies. The group is also handing out water, food and other supplies. The records division has made calls to over 200 people to help the team in western North Carolina. Thank you for your generosity! We have collected all those badly needed donations and we will take them to the mountains mid-day tomorrow. If you have more to donate, feel free to drop it by the Gastonia Police Department at 200 East Long. pic.twitter.com/sOmYpJs2PB— Gastonia Police (@GPDNC) October 3, 2024 The Gastonia Police Department is also accepting donations to help families in the western part of the state. People can drop off diapers, water and baby wipes to be distributed by those officers in western North Carolina. The donated items will be delivered to western North Carolina around midday Friday.