**CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Legendary former North Carolina basketball coach Roy Williams helped eliminate $10 million in debt for thousands of Western Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene last fall.**
In a remarkable act of generosity and compassion, Hall of Fame coach Roy Williams has once again demonstrated that his impact reaches far beyond the basketball court. Known for his decades of leadership at the University of North Carolina, where he led the Tar Heels to three national championships, Williams has now turned his attention to helping families recover from one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit the region in recent years.
Hurricane Helene struck the Carolinas last fall, bringing widespread flooding, property damage, and long-term financial strain to communities across western North Carolina. While emergency aid helped cover immediate needs, many residents were left with mounting medical bills, housing debt, and other financial burdens. That’s when Roy Williams stepped in.
Working in partnership with a national nonprofit organization specializing in debt relief, Williams contributed a substantial portion of the funding needed to forgive $10 million in debt for thousands of struggling individuals and families.
“Western North Carolina is where my roots are,” Williams said in a statement released on Monday. “These are hard-working people who have faced incredibly tough times through no fault of their own. I just wanted to do something meaningful to help them get back on their feet.”
According to local officials, the debt relief focused on medical debt, utility arrears, and overdue housing costs — issues that became especially urgent following the storm. Letters notifying residents of their cleared debts began arriving earlier this month, bringing both shock and tears of joy.
“I opened the letter and just cried,” said Maria Thompson, a single mother from Asheville. “After the storm, I didn’t know how I was going to recover. Knowing someone like Coach Williams cared enough to do this — it gave me hope again.”
Roy Williams’ involvement in the initiative was initially kept quiet. However, as the debt relief letters reached more homes, word spread quickly, and gratitude poured in from across the region. Community leaders hailed Williams not only as a coaching icon, but now as a quiet hero in the wake of disaster recovery.
“He’s always been a man of action and heart,” said Buncombe County Commissioner Leigh Parker. “What he’s done here will never be forgotten. This is life-changing for so many.”
Williams, who retired from coaching in 2021, has remained actively involved in philanthropic work. From supporting cancer research to funding scholarships, he’s consistently used his platform to lift others. This most recent act, however, may be one of his most personal.
“I was raised to believe that when you’re blessed, you give back,” Williams said. “I just hope this helps people breathe a little easier.”
As the region continues to rebuild, Roy Williams’ $10 million debt relief effort stands as a powerful reminder of what true leadership and compassion can accomplish — off the court, and deep in the heart of the communities that helped shape him.
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