Volunteers Build “Survival Sheds” for Hurricane Helene Victims
LEXINGTON, S.C. — In an inspiring display of community love and support, volunteers in Lexington County have banded together to create what they’re calling “survival sheds” for families left homeless due to Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. These heartwarming efforts aim to provide not just shelter, but also hope to those who have faced the turmoil of recent storms.
A Community Effort
Curtis Fink, the founder of Godspeed SC, is rallying several volunteers to construct these essential shelters, which will be transported to Buncombe County, North Carolina. Fink stated, “We’re trying to bring the people of North Carolina hope in the form of these buildings.” A total of twelve shelters are set to be delivered to those in need, with distribution plans based on individual circumstances.
Each shelter is designed to comfortably house up to two people, making the structures quite practical for small families or individuals seeking refuge as they rebuild their lives. “You’ve got different locations that are building these shelters. Some were built in Edgefield like about four weeks ago. We’re building them here. There’s another group who wants to build some down around Santee. I’m just glad to see the public coming together,” Fink added optimistically, highlighting the collaborative spirit of this venture.
Comfort and Warmth in the Mountains
What sets these sheds apart is their thoughtful design; they’re insulated to provide warmth and safety during the chilly mountain winters. Fink elaborated, “We’re giving them the weather type package. We’re thinking along terms of a small Mr. buddy heater or smaller heater. It’s got two plugs in each one, you got a light switch, LED light, of course, one window for ventilation.” These small yet effective details ensure that the shelters are comfortable and functional, providing a much-needed refuge.
Strong Community Bonds
Fink is also teaming up with local organizations, including Covenant Baptist Church and Cabins 4 Christ, to bring these 10-by-15 foot sheds to life. “Most of what you see here is donations. And, like I said, whether it’s corporations or local churches, we’ve had people as far as Ridgeland, West Columbia, you know all over Lexington,” he reported, emphasizing the kindness of community members who are eager to lend a hand in times of need.
A Call to Action
People of all ages from the Midlands are getting involved. Fink highlighted that everyone is warmly welcomed to lend their skills, stating, “I can teach you how to nail a nail on a board. I can teach you how to paint these walls, but I can’t teach people empathy and empathy has to be shown.” The volunteers are a testament to what can be accomplished when both young and old come together to show compassion for their neighbors.
An Urgent Need
Fink has identified a significant need in the community, revealing that around 640 people are currently in need of these life-saving shelters. This initiative reflects not only the resilience of the human spirit but also the idea that together, we can weather any storm. The survival sheds stand as a beacon of hope, encouraging affected families to look forward to a brighter future beyond the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
As the Lexington community gears up for the final stages of this uplifting project, there’s no doubt that the collaborative spirit and unwavering support will do wonders for those impacted. If you’re in the area and want to contribute or learn more, now is the time to step in and be a part of this incredible journey of rebuilding lives.
