Community Unites in Cayce to Support Recovery Efforts After Hurricane Helene

Cayce, SC – Community Comes Together After Hurricane Helene

As Cayce and surrounding areas recover from the recent onslaught of Hurricane Helene, it’s heartwarming to see how the local charter schools have stepped up to support families impacted by the storm. In tough times like these, neighborly love and kindness really shine through, reminding us all that we’re in this together.

American Leadership Academy – Lexington Leads the Charge

Just a few days after the storm, the American Leadership Academy (ALA) in Lexington organized an **impromptu supply and food drive** that has brought the community together. On Sunday, September 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., families in the area rallied together. It was incredible to see cars lined up at the lower school car line, eager to donate essentials like water, paper goods, non-perishable foods, and batteries.

The outpouring of support was **so great** that ALA ended up with a surplus of supplies. By Monday, the school opened its doors wide, inviting both upper and lower school families to come and take what they needed. There were volunteers on hand, ready to lend a helping hand and embody the school’s RAISE Values, which stand for Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence. It was truly a heartwarming sight!

Gray Collegiate Academy Steps Up

Meanwhile, further down in West Columbia, the students and staff at Gray Collegiate Academy weren’t just sitting by either. Not long after Hurricane Helene made its impact known, **school leader Dr. Brian Newsome** was quick on his feet. When he heard that a medical team from Self Regional Healthcare needed ice—yes, ice—to transport critical medical supplies, Gray Collegiate jumped into action. They managed to provide enough ice to fill **22 coolers**, assuring that perishable items were kept fresh.

But that wasn’t all. The school went above and beyond, offering refreshments and snacks to the dedicated local linemen hard at work, restoring power in Aiken and Augusta. Not stopping there, the school’s *Senior Student Council* launched a supply drive, collecting flashlights, toiletries, and non-perishable food items to help those in need across the Carolinas. And guess what? This supply drive is still ongoing! What a fantastic way to help our neighbors!

A Shining Example of Community Spirit

The stories coming out of these schools are nothing short of inspiring. As the students, parents, and educators come together, it showcases a culture of **compassion and collaboration** that defines these charter schools. They are truly becoming beacons of hope during a challenging time.

As our community nurses its wounds and starts to rebuild, let’s remember that every little bit helps. Whether it’s a simple donation of supplies, lending a neighbor a hand, or just checking in on someone who might be struggling, we can all contribute to the recovery process. It’s moments like these that remind us how important unity is and how **compassion can conquer adversity**.

In the face of challenges, the spirit of Cayce, West Columbia, and the surrounding areas shines through. As we gather supplies, lend assistance, or share kindness, it’s clear that we are all in this together. Here’s to the **resilience** of our community and to many more acts of kindness as we move forward!

Let’s continue to support each other in these times, showing everyone that the heart of South Carolina beats strong, even in the aftermath of a storm. Together, we will rise!