Biltmore Estate and its owners pledged $2 million to help the surrounding community recover from Hurricane Helene.

Although the estate remains closed due to storm damage, the family owners said Biltmore remains steadfast in its support of its employees and community as rebuilding begins.

“Western North Carolina has been our family’s home for more than 125 years, and we are devastated to see Helene’s impact on our region,” Bill Cecil Jr., president and CEO of Biltmore, said in a written statement on Oct. 7. “We remain committed to supporting our employees and neighbors in the aftermath of this unprecedented storm and the long-term recovery efforts. Now more than ever, we must work together to stabilize and rebuild this community.”

The $2 million commitment was announced through the newly established Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC to aid in Helene relief efforts. The fund’s focus is to provide critical and immediate financial relief for people in need, including supporting employees in crisis, providing support to area nonprofits aiding the region and investing in the recovery of the community.

Billed as America’s largest home, Biltmore Estate is Asheville’s largest tourist attraction. Biltmore Village, a popular shopping area located just outside the estate, was hit hard by historic flooding from Hurricane Helene.

On Oct. 3, the estate provided an update on its storm damage, saying the main entrance and other low-lying areas of the property suffered significant flooding and damage to buildings. Forested areas of the estate also suffered extensive wind damage to grounds and some structures. However, owners said Biltmore House, Conservatory, winery, gardens and the estate’s hotels received minimal or no damage.