Curtis Fink from Lexington County is leading a community effort to build survival shelters for families affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. With the help of local non-profits and Convent Baptist Church, they have constructed 12 sturdy shelters out of nearly entirely donated materials. These shelters are designed to provide stable temporary housing for those displaced by the hurricane, with construction support coming from community members. Fink encourages further contributions to aid the project as the need for housing remains critical.
In the heart of Lexington County, a remarkable story of hope and resilience is unfolding as Curtis Fink steps up to help those who found themselves uprooted by the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Teaming up with two dedicated non-profits and Convent Baptist Church, Fink is on a mission to create essential survival shelters for families who are in critical need of temporary housing.
This small but mighty project has seen the construction of an impressive 12 shelters, with nearly all the materials used—about 99%—coming from generous donations gathered from individuals and organizations across the Midlands. These structures are not just makeshift tents; they are thoughtfully designed 10 x 15-foot sheds that aim to provide a more stable and comfortable living situation for those affected by the hurricane.
The journey began when Fink started constructing shelters elsewhere in the state, but it wasn’t long before he recognized the need to partner with his local church to amplify the efforts. Now, these sturdy little homes are set to make their way to Swannanoa, North Carolina, by the end of next week, with hopes that they will bring relief to families who are currently living in precarious conditions.
Each of these shelters is fully equipped with insulation, two power sources, an energy-efficient LED light, a window for natural light, and adequate space for a bed and personal belongings. Unlike tents that can be flimsy and leak in the rain, these sheds feature hard walls and non-leaking roofs, ensuring residents have a safe place to stay during uncertain times.
The need for such shelters is dire; as many as 640 families are currently listed as needing temporary housing in the wake of the hurricane, with over 150 families already receiving assistance. In fact, many mobile home parks near the river have been devastated, leading displaced families to seek land for placement of these new sheds.
The community support has been overwhelming, with locals not only donating materials but also helping to provide meals and assisting with cleanup at the construction site. It’s this sense of unity and commitment to helping one another that has truly driven the success of this project. The sheds are crafted with unique materials donated by various local companies, construction firms, and caring individuals who want to make a difference in their neighbors’ lives.
Construction began on an open field generously provided by the pastor of Convent Baptist Church, and Fink hopes to see the sheds completed by week’s end. Transporting them to their final destination is the next crucial step in providing these families with the shelter they desperately need.
As the project gains momentum, Fink is encouraging anyone interested in getting involved to step up and contribute in any way they can. Whether it’s lending a hand in construction, donating materials, or simply spreading the word, every bit of effort helps in making a real difference during this challenging time.
It’s heartwarming to witness such compassion and dedication from a community coming together to rebuild lives shattered by disaster. With friends like Curtis Fink and his team, the displaced residents of Swannanoa hold on to a glimmer of hope for a brighter future
Lexington’s Compassionate Initiative for Hurricane Helene Survivors
Community Unites to Build Hopeful “Survival Sheds” for Hurricane Helene Survivors
Volunteers Rally to Construct “Survival Sheds” for Hurricane Helene Survivors in Lexington County
Community Comes Together to Support Hurricane Helene Victims in Columbia, S.C.
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