Currently, Hurricane Helene is causing mass destruction in parts of Western North Carolina, specifically Asheville, Boone, and other towns in the mountainous regions. Many have been reported dead or missing, have become stranded, or have lost valuables.
Many communities such as schools, churches, and even radio shows have begun collecting donations to send to survivors of the hurricane to help them get through this difficult time. Staff members Jaachak Kaur, Jessica Ballew, and Eric Greene, along with the LRHS Junior and Freshmen Council started a Western N.C. Hurricane Relief Supply Drive here at Leesville.
“[I wanted to start a supply drive] because I’m from the Western part of the state… and my husband is too, so most of our family and a lot of our friends still live there,” said Jessica Ballew, staff. “Seeing the devastation, it was heartbreaking, and I wanted to do something to help,” said Ballew.
As of October 10, 2024, they had collected numerous items such as toothbrushes/toothpaste, lots of food, personal hygiene products, blankets, towels, cleanup supplies, etc.
“I’ve donated some paper towels, some toilet paper, and some baby wipes and stuff like that,” said Cole Fox, junior. Fox wanted to do his part in helping the victims of the hurricane after seeing the destruction it has caused.
“There’s about 25 [students] that have brought stuff to my room and there’s a lot of others that have dropped some off in Ms. Kaur’s room and Room 3… Room 3 is full of supplies that we’re excited to donate,” said Ballew. “I’ve been really amazed by the generosity of everyone here,” said Ballew.
The supply drive lasted from 10/3/24 to 10/11/24, and items were dropped off in rooms 123, 128 and 3 (student services). Items such as non-perishable foods, toiletries/sanitation items, baby formula, etc. were accepted. Many different items were collected in order to help survivors of Hurricane Helene.
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