The Clinton Community Rallies to Aid Western North Carolina After Devastating Crisis

The Clinton community has stepped up to support Western North Carolina, where widespread devastation has left many without essential supplies. This mission of compassion was initiated by Casey, Devin, and Daisy Lawson, along with Ashley and Barry Martin.

In recent weeks, local residents like Marji and Michael Young have continued these efforts. Michael Young is preparing for another trip, with his truck and trailer packed full of supplies, ready to deliver aid to areas still recovering from the crisis.

Marji Young has been coordinating with local volunteers, setting up Amazon wish lists for requested supplies and a Venmo account for donations. Funds are being used to purchase critical items, like a 48-inch chainsaw, to assist in Barnardsville and Weaverville. Volunteers such as Ashlee Davenport and Elizabeth Lusby have also driven to Weaverville to provide hands-on assistance.

All Saints Episcopal Church in Clinton has created a donation link to support the relief effort. Despite the challenging conditions, the volunteers on the ground in North Carolina remain resilient and positive, working tirelessly since September 27 to provide assistance.

The need for support is still urgent, particularly in Burnsville, where the situation is dire. Basic supplies such as flashlights, lanterns, batteries, camp stoves, and propane cylinders are desperately needed for families without power or water. Mothers are especially struggling to heat water for baby bottles, underscoring the critical need for these donations. Water and other essentials remain scarce.

In Weaverville, local churches have become centers for organizing and distributing supplies. Relief centers there are in need of shelving, clear plastic crates, and other items, including food tins, apples, oranges, dental cleaners, non-dairy baby formula, instant coffee, powdered creamers, shelf-stable milk, and small comforts like soda to provide a brief moment of relief to those affected.

Residents of Laurens County are invited to make a difference by donating the requested supplies at the following drop-off locations:

• All Saints Episcopal Church, 505 Calvert Avenue, Clinton
• Clinton Animal Hospital, 404 Willard Rd, Clinton

For more information or to arrange a pick-up of items, contact Cindy Pierce at 864-684-9520.

If enough donations are received, a second truck and trailer will be deployed to transport additional supplies. Volunteers are also needed to help sort and crate items, and to assist at the distribution centers.

With the continued generosity of Laurens County residents and the dedication of volunteers, hope is being restored to families in Western North Carolina. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

Please spread the word, gather supplies, and help ensure that the people of Burnsville and Weaverville receive the aid they so desperately need.