Augusta Residents Band Together After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation
As the winds from Hurricane Helene subsided, Augusta, Georgia, found itself facing a daunting recovery journey. Following the storm’s landfall on the early morning of September 27th, 2024, the community has rallied together, proving that in tough times, unity and compassion reign supreme.
United Way Worldwide Lends a Helping Hand
Recently, Angela F. Williams, the President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, took time to visit Augusta and assess the damage inflicted by the hurricane. Accompanied by local board members and staff from United Way of the CSRA, Williams spent an impactful morning reflecting on the organization’s initial response and ongoing recovery efforts.
Brittany Burnett, the President and CEO of United Way of the CSRA, shared a timeline of their actions post-Hurricane Helene. Their response was immediate, launching a Disaster Relief Fund just two days after the hurricane made landfall. This fund is dedicated to raising money for the urgent and long-term needs of those affected.
Resource Mobilization in Crisis
In the wake of the hurricane, United Way staff jumped into action, answering over 211 calls from distressed residents across 11 Georgia counties and two South Carolina communities. They provided essential information about food distribution centers, bottled water availability, and shelter options—everything that could lend a helping hand in a time of crisis.
Through partnerships with organizations like Golden Harvest Food Bank and World Central Kitchen, along with local officials, United Way of the CSRA identified key locations to distribute food and supplies to those most in need. 211 has become a lifeline during this dark period—something Williams passionately advocates for, emphasizing its vital role as an often-overlooked asset across the United States.
Collaborations that Make a Difference
The support extended even further with collaborations from global companies like Airbnb, DoorDash, and GoFundMe. These alliances have helped local residents secure housing, access food resources, and provide much-needed financial assistance, showcasing how the wider community can pull together during difficult times.
“Everyone jumped in and did a job they weren’t used to doing, all for the betterment of our community,” said Burnett. Her optimism shines through as she highlights the invaluable role of United Way and the 211 service in Augusta’s response.
A Personal Touch from Leadership
During her visit, Williams can personally relate to the experiences of Augusta’s residents, as she has deep family ties to the area. She spoke of how Augusta has traditionally been a refuge for those escaping storms but now finds itself tasked with recovery. “As a network, I am committed to ensuring that United Way has the resources it needs,” Williams stated, emphasizing continued support and preparedness for future crises.
Looking Forward: New Initiatives on the Horizon
As the discussion wrapped up, Burnett announced an exciting new initiative launching soon, which aims to ensure that essential items are delivered to those in dire need. Thanks to partnerships forged with local and global organizations, this program promises to make a significant impact on the lives of affected residents.
Join the Recovery Efforts
For those interested in supporting these recovery initiatives and helping the Augusta community get back on its feet, more information can be found at the local United Way’s website or by contacting them directly. With the dedication and spirit of the residents and organizations involved, Augusta is poised to recover and rebuild, showcasing the strength of community in even the most challenging times.
