Lowcountry Rallies to Support North Carolina After Hurricane Helene
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The warmth and spirit of the Lowcountry are shining bright as the community rallies together to support neighbors in western North Carolina who were hit hard by the recent Hurricane Helene. First responders, lineman, local nonprofits, and caring residents are stepping up to lend a helping hand and ensure that those in need have access to vital supplies.
One such local hero is Candace Crompton, a resident of Mount Pleasant for the last 20 years. Before settling in South Carolina, she called Rutherfordton, North Carolina, her home. The emotional weight of the situation hits close to home for her, especially considering that her family remains in the affected area. She poignantly recalls her experience in the days following the storm: “It was dicey, very sporadic. I was able to get, like, a text message here and there, but otherwise, there was no communication up until, I think, Sunday evening when they first got cell service,” she shared.
Determined to help, Crompton has organized a trip back to her hometown, bringing along much-needed supplies. The community support has been overwhelming, with generous donations pouring in like packs of water, food, and volunteers offering driving assistance. “My parents are there. My whole family’s there. My dad’s business is actually right in Rutherford County. So I will see them tomorrow. He’s going to help me distribute the items,” she explained, beaming with pride over the collective efforts.
Her journey to deliver aid doesn’t stop there. A friend’s company contributed by providing four Sprinter vans loaded with supplies and drivers to accompany her. Crompton and her caravan are just a few among many first responders and charitable organizations working tirelessly to reach those impacted by the hurricane.
Water Mission on the Front Lines
Among those organizations is Water Mission, a Charleston-based nonprofit that specializes in providing safe water solutions during disasters. Josh Burns, the disaster response program manager, highlighted the urgent need for clean drinking water in such crisis situations. “Typically people have about three days that they can last without access to safe drinking water before they’re at risk of severe dehydration and even death,” he warned. That’s precisely why their teamwork in installing safe water systems is crucial to keeping communities safe.
In addition to safe water systems, Water Mission is distributing hundreds of generators to help those coping with power outages. With a warehouse stocked full of response gear, they are committed to being on the ground as long as possible, providing necessary aid to those suffering from the aftermath of the storm.
Working through local churches and law enforcement, they have coordinated efforts to address community needs. In a remarkable operation, they even used a Black Hawk helicopter to airlift a safe water system into an area that was inaccessible by road, allowing clean water to flow to a community in desperate need.
A Call to Action
As Crompton and other local heroes forge ahead in delivering support, she encourages everyone to contribute in any way they can. “The mountains are just like the coolest little peaceful place, you know. I mean, it’s just a quaint little area with really sweet people, and these people have literally lost everything. So yeah, you know, my heart goes out to them,” she said with deep compassion.
Every bit helps, she emphasizes. Whether it’s a small donation or sharing resources, the Lowcountry is proving that in times of need, the community can come together to make a difference. So, if you’re looking to help, consider reaching out to trusted charities or getting involved in local support efforts. Together, we can shine a light on those battling the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
