Community Rallies Together After Hurricane Helene
NEWBERRY — When Hurricane Helene swept through our area, it left behind not just strong winds and heavy rain, but a challenge for the entire community. No one expected just how much devastation the storm would cause. If you’re like me, you thought it would just pass with a few inconveniences. Instead, we faced long outages, lost food, and a lot of uncertainty. But in true Newberry spirit, the community stepped up to help one another in incredible ways.
A Community Cares Event
Just last weekend, residents of Newberry came together for a Community Cares event, organized by the Jeffrey and Harriet Lampkin Foundation in partnership with the Newberry County NAACP and Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen. Set up in the former Big Lots parking lot, this was an opportunity for neighbors to reconnect and support each other. When I arrived, it was heartwarming to see parked food trucks lined up and ready to serve, while various organizations and sorority members worked tirelessly to prepare meals.
The event kicked off at 1 p.m. on September 29, but the generosity started much earlier. People were already forming long lines well before the event began. In fact, I captured a time-lapse video showing just how far the line stretched—almost reaching Harbor Freight! It was clear that many individuals were eager to lend a hand and partake in this show of unity.
Support and Kindness Flowing
As I walked around snapping photos and chatting with community members, it was amazing to hear stories of how people were coping post-Helene. Some had lost power and had been living off generators, while others had been diligently finding ways to keep their families fed and connected. Despite their struggles, these incredible individuals still took the time to come and give back to others.
I was not alone in noticing the kindness of others. The online updates being shared throughout the week emphasized just how many people were working to ensure the community was supported. From promoting school district updates to sharing information about charging stations, it was a collaborative effort to keep everyone informed during those uncertain times.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Yet, it is important to remember those who worked behind the scenes—the linemen and first responders who worked tirelessly to restore power and respond to emergencies. Many of these brave individuals pushed through long hours, and some even came from out of state to aid in the restoration efforts. It’s only fitting for us to offer a heartfelt thank you for their dedication.
It Takes a Village
As I reflect on the weeks following Hurricane Helene, I can’t help but feel proud of the strong bonds we share as a community. The saying, “It takes a village,” has never rung truer. This village mentality is what makes Newberry so special. When things get tough, we come together; we share food, we lend a hand, and we uplift those around us. Let’s continue this path of kindness and support because, truly, the world could use more of it.
If you know of any other individuals or organizations that have been working hard to help our community in these trying times, take the opportunity to acknowledge their efforts. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, contribute to shaping the caring atmosphere we’ve cultivated here.
Let’s keep moving forward together, Newberry, because brighter days are ahead.
