Lark Frazier’s DIY Toilets: A Community’s Answer to Crisis

When Hurricane Helene hit Asheville, North Carolina, it wasn’t just the winds or the rain that brought the city to its knees—it was the sudden loss of running water. With tens of thousands of people without water for days, life became a scramble for basics. Among those stepping up was Lark Frazier, a local resident who refused to let her neighbors endure the indignity and health risks of inadequate sanitation. What she did next turned an impossible situation into a story of resilience and ingenuity.

The Challenge: No Water, No Sanitation

The hurricane had knocked out the city’s water infrastructure, leaving homes without running water. That meant no flushing toilets, no showers, no cleaning. Public health quickly became a concern as people tried to manage waste and hygiene with improvised solutions. The urgency to find a fix grew by the hour.

A Rural Solution in an Urban Setting

Lark Frazier, who grew up in a rural area, leaned on her upbringing and knowledge of emergency preparedness to tackle the problem. With resources like the Emergency Toilet Guidebook, she created makeshift toilets using buckets, plastic bags, and wood chips. These DIY toilets were simple, safe, and effective in managing waste during the crisis.

Her solution wasn’t just practical—it was empowering. She shared the idea with neighbors, showing them how to build their own toilets and manage waste responsibly. For many, this was their first step toward regaining a sense of control and dignity during the crisis.

The Birth of Flush AVL

While Lark focused on immediate sanitation needs, another group of volunteers, led by Molly Black and Elle DeBruhl, formed Flush AVL. This grassroots initiative addressed the water shortage by sourcing non-potable water from nearby ponds. Using donated IBC totes (large water storage containers), they delivered water to homes for flushing toilets and basic cleaning.

The group’s efforts were a lifeline for residents who couldn’t leave their homes or access other resources. By pooling skills, donations, and determination, Flush AVL turned a dire situation into a testament to what communities can achieve together.

Health Risks Averted

Without proper sanitation, diseases like cholera or dysentery could have easily spread. The makeshift toilets and delivered water prevented these outbreaks, keeping the community safe and healthy.

Dignity Restored

For many residents, losing access to a toilet wasn’t just inconvenient—it was humiliating. Lark’s simple DIY solutions gave people back their dignity. Neighbors who felt helpless suddenly had a way to manage their needs with privacy and respect.

A Blueprint for Disaster Response

What happened in Asheville didn’t just solve an immediate problem—it set an example. The collaborative efforts of residents like Lark and groups like Flush AVL demonstrated how communities can organize quickly and effectively in the face of disaster.

The Power of Local Action

Hurricanes and natural disasters often highlight systemic failures, but they also reveal the strength of local communities. In Asheville, it wasn’t large organizations or government agencies that stepped in first—it was neighbors helping neighbors.

Why Emergency Sanitation Matters

Proper sanitation during disasters isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Without it, the health and well-being of entire communities are at risk. Stories like Asheville’s remind us of the importance of being prepared and having the tools to act when systems fail.

How You Can Prepare

Disasters can happen anywhere. Learn how to create emergency sanitation solutions, support local resilience programs, or donate to grassroots efforts in crisis zones.

A Reminder of Resilience

Because when disaster strikes, it’s not just about surviving—it’s about finding ways to thrive, together.

“This wasn’t just about toilets—it was about dignity, safety, and showing that we’re stronger together.” – Lark Frazier