Our Future Farmers of America (FFA) program is partnering with the athletics program to create a donation drive to collect items for citizens of Western North Carolina after serious destruction from Hurricane Helene.

Why it matters: Devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene was revealed across the South on Monday, September 30th. There was crucial damage in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia. Specifically in Western North Carolina, there were residents stranded due to washed out roads, lack of power and cellular service; these people don’t have any way to get basic supplies or to get in contact with their loved ones. In places like Asheville, most roads are washed out and a big chunk of interstate 40 is blocked, so recovery and support efforts have been difficult.

Zoom-in:  This week the FFA class and our athletics program are partnering to try and make a difference for the communities in Western North Carolina that were affected by Hurricane Helene by encouraging those around our community to donate any items they can like toiletry items, feminine products, baby items, canned goods, and bottled waters. Members of the Student Athlete Advisory Council will be collecting items at all the home athletic events this week, and they will be sent to the Whiteville police department to be sent to the mountains. 

What they’re saying: “Our community especially, should be willing to give a helping hand to those in need in Western North Carolina because we can relate on some level because of our location and frequent hurricanes,” said FFA teacher Kelly Richardson. “Any contribution that you can make will help even if it is not much.”

Bottom Line: It is very unfortunate that the people in Western North Carolina are having to go through such a hard and unimaginable crisis, and it is very important that those around who are able to help in any manner do so.