Augusta Deli Appeals for Community Help Following Storm Devastation

Augusta, Ga. Deli Seeks Community Support After Devastating Storm

Hey there, Augusta! As many of us continue to clean up after Hurricane Helene, we wanted to share a story about a beloved local deli that needs our help now more than ever. For nearly 150 years, Hildebrant’s has been a cherished spot in our community, but the recent storm has thrown quite a wrench in their operations.

Storm Strikes and Deli Closes

It all happened quickly. Luanne Hildebrandt, the store owner, recounted how they closed up shop just the day before the storm hit, thinking it would be a short-lived event. “We thought it was going to be over in two days,” she shared with a hint of disbelief in her voice. Unfortunately, with power outages sweeping through the area, Luanne and her team found that the storm had spoiled a lot of their goods.

As the great-granddaughter of the deli’s original owner, Luanne has deep roots in Augusta. She reflects on being part of a family legacy that has served the community for generations. “Over the years, it’s been a corner grocery store, and I’ve been back there almost 50 years,” she said proudly, expressing her desire to keep the tradition alive.

The Power of Community

It wasn’t just the heavy winds and rain that struck during Helene; there was also a storm of solidarity that swept through the town. Luanne explained how the experience allowed her to better connect with her neighbors. “The fact that I had lived downtown for several years and hadn’t really met anybody on the street– I knew where some people were but hadn’t ventured out because working six days a week,” she noted.

She found help coming from all directions. “Neighbors from Ellis Street all came together on Saturday and went to work like little busy bees,” Luanne recalled. “Let me sit there for a while,” she added, expressing her gratitude for the community’s support. With laughter sprinkled throughout her story, she said they were essentially “cleaning out the refrigerator.”

Looking Ahead: Hope and Community Support

As Luanne and her team look to the future, they are making plans to reopen the deli next week. However, to make that happen, they are reaching out to the community for support and donations. “We hope to open up shop next week with the support and donations of the public,” Luanne said, expressing her hopes that the community will rally around them during this challenging time.

If you’re interested in helping Hildebrant’s get back on its feet, a simple way to contribute is to reach out directly via email at Luanneofaugusta@gmail.com. Every little bit can make a big difference to this iconic place that has served us for nearly a century and a half!

Final Thoughts

It’s stories like these that remind us of the true meaning of community. In the face of adversity, the connections we forge with our neighbors can be incredibly powerful. Hildebrant’s Deli is more than just a sandwich shop; it’s a piece of Augusta’s heart. Let’s come together and support them as they work to rebuild and continue serving our community!