Augusta Community Unites for Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, the city of Augusta is seeing an outpouring of support from local churches and organizations ready to lend a helping hand to those impacted by the storm. One of the key players in this relief effort is Covenant Presbyterian Church, located at 3131 Walton Way, which is stepping up to provide essential resources to those in need through a food pantry.
Daily Food Pantry Open to the Community
Covenant Presbyterian has opened its doors to the community, operating the food pantry from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day until the demand starts to taper off. The church typically collects donations for the Gap Ministries food pantry, which is normally available on Thursdays. However, in light of the recent storm, church leaders decided to redirect these supplies to the community.
Judy Grieve, one of the church’s lay leaders, shared her observations from Thursday, noting that around four or five families came by the pantry that day. “We feel sad that we’re in this position, because it’s a mess,” Grieve said. She added, “But we are glad that we can open the door out to the street and say ‘come in and have what we have.’” This simple act of kindness is providing a glimmer of hope for locals facing challenging times.
The Changing Nature of the Pantry
Rev. Andy Cooke, who co-pastors the church with his wife, Rev. Katelyn Cooke, emphasized how fluid the situation is regarding the pantry’s operation. “It’s fluid right now. If the demand tapers off, then we’ll close it,” he mentioned. This flexibility showcases the church’s commitment to meeting the community’s needs as they arise.
Grieve highlighted the emotional toll that the hurricane has taken on many individuals and families. “It’s very hard for people who are used to providing for themselves… it’s a first for some,” she observed. This empathy resonates deeply among the volunteers and leaders as they strive to deliver comfort and nourishment to those hit hardest by the storm.
Other Local Support Initiatives
Covenant Presbyterian is not alone in its efforts to provide relief. Several other churches in the Augusta area are also stepping up to help their neighbors. For example, Abilene Baptist Church is offering tree and debris cleanup assistance. They are inviting residents to stop by their location at 3917 Washington Road from noon to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, to Saturday, October 5, to complete necessary paperwork with Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief.
Saint’s Sanctuary First Haitian Church of Augusta has opened its doors daily to allow the community to charge their devices, cool off, and grab a meal at 3030 Milledgeville Road. They’re a welcoming space, where locals can regroup and recharge.
Similarly, St. Mark Methodist Church located at 2367 Washington Road will be rolling out relief supplies on Friday, October 4, alongside hosting a free cookout for lunch. Supplies expected include pet food, cleaning supplies, baby items, boxed foods, drinks, toiletries, and water. This gathering is set to kick off at 11:30 a.m..
Community Support Continues
Mosaic Church in Evans is also joining the effort by offering non-perishable food and supplies on Friday, October 4, from 10 a.m. – noon. As part of these community efforts, First Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Augusta is allowing the community to fill up water jugs and drink water from noon to 3 p.m. through Friday, also offering a charging station for devices.
To further assist locals, Abilene Baptist Church‘s Christian Life Center will be available for showers and device charging from Thursday, October 3, to Saturday, October 5, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., provided visitors bring their own toiletries and towels.
Hope in Times of Crisis
As the community comes together to help those in need, Grieve reflects on the importance of providing hope during such dark times. “I think right now, when you look around and see disaster, you need to know somewhere there’s hope,” Grieve emphasized, capturing the spirit of compassion that’s blossoming across Augusta. In the face of adversity, kindness is truly shining through.
As we continue to support each other during this recovery process, it’s heartening to know that the spirit of community remains vibrant and resilient among the residents of Augusta.
