One Heart Stories: J. Gabriel’s Path to Renewal
For more than two decades, J. Gabriel has been known across North Carolina for its thoughtful gifts, home décor, and welcoming spirit. With multiple locations across the state, their stores have become an integral part of their communities; places where customers come to celebrate, browse, and feel a little more connected to home.
But in September 2024, one of J. Gabriel’s locations faced a challenge unlike any they had ever experienced. When Hurricane Helene tore through Western North Carolina, floodwaters reached into downtown areas, leaving behind damaged storefronts, ruined merchandise, and uncertainty for countless small businesses.
One of J. Gabriel’s stores was among those walloped. Floors were soaked, displays and inventory destroyed, and the team suddenly faced the daunting reality of cleanup and recovery. For a small business built on heart and hospitality, it was a moment of loss, but also a test of perseverance.
That’s where Heart on Main Street stepped in. Through the generosity of donors and partners, J. Gabriel received a $5,000 disaster recovery grant to help repair the damage, replace lost inventory, and reopen to the community that has supported them for years.
The process wasn’t quick. It took time, effort, and patience to rebuild what had been lost, but J. Gabriel’s team faced each challenge with determination and grace. Step by step, they restored what the storm had taken.
Today, J. Gabriel is back to doing what they do best, creating a beautiful shopping experience that celebrates local charm and connection. Their recovery is a reminder that every small business has its own unique story of resilience, and that even the reopening of one store can bring new life to an entire Main Street.
For Heart on Main Street, J. Gabriel’s journey captures what this campaign is all about. Every donation, every grant, every act of kindness leads to moments like this; one store, one story, one recovery at a time.
One Day. One Heart. Endless Impact.