SHELBY, N.C. – Hurricane Helene blew through North Carolina more than three months ago killing more than 100 people and leaving behind millions of dollars in damage throughout the state. The Mathis Family in Shelby is one of many families still working to recover after the storm. The family of five is living in a camper which means dinner at their home looks different lately. They use a cast iron skillet over a campfire. “We have a fire going right now so we can cook supper on it to save what propane we do have to be able to heat for the next days that are coming up that are going to be cold,” Lee Mathis, Shelby Resident said. The family is spending Christmas in their camper after their home was a total loss after the storm back in September. “It was a nightmare because it was something we were working hard for trying to make a home,” Lee Mathis said. Mathis says he’s been struggling with his health since the trees that tore through his home also knocked him unconscious. “I suffered a severe concussion, and I’m having seizures from it, and I’m not allowed to drive, so I can’t go back to work,” Lee Mathis said. Mathis says his insurance company covered the cost of buying the camper and they have $87,000 to rebuild. He says the bank put the money in an escrow account where funds will be released in stages of construction. Right now, builders are working on the foundation, but they say completion could take months. “Up until this point everything has been hurry up and wait,” Mathis said. The Mathis family also says FEMA denied their claim for all assistance outside of lodging. “As a mom, it’s very hard not to be able to give your kids what they Want or even what they need right now. Rachel Mathis, Shelby Resident, “So sometimes it’s hard, even though I know that we didn’t put ourselves in this situation” WCCB contacted FEMA on behalf of the Mathis family. A spokesperson tells us the agency is taking a closer look at their case. FEMA recommends calling the disaster relief hotline or visiting a recovery center if you are still in need of help. The Mathis family’s trailer is decorated for the holiday. They say they’re leaning on their faith to get them through the difficult time. “Lots of prayers, making the best out a hard situation and we’ll get through it,” Rachel Mathis, Shelby Resident said. The family set up a GoFundMe account to help support their financial needs.