Rock Hill Community Rallies to Support Hurricane Helene Victims
In Rock Hill, S.C., compassion and unity shine as the community comes together to assist those affected by the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. While many people are still grappling with the aftermath of the storm, members of the Winthrop University community have stepped up in a big way to lend a hand to those in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee.
Team Efforts in Action
The women’s volleyball team at Winthrop set a compassionate standard by using a recent match as a platform to gather donations. Thanks to the collective energy and enthusiasm of players and fans alike, the collected items have already been loaded onto a truck and are en route to support the affected areas. Coach Heather Gearhart is proud of the way her team is impacting the community, proving that the spirit of giving is alive and well among the Eagles.
Not to be outdone, the women’s soccer and lacrosse teams also joined in the effort to collect much-needed supplies. It’s truly heartwarming to see these young athletes channel their energy into helping others during a time of need.
A Personal Touch
On a very personal note, Softball Coach Kendall Fuller, who has ties to the area through her past coaching role at Lees-McCrae College in Banner Elk, North Carolina, has made several trips back home. Her dedication is evident as she reaches out to support friends, former players, and colleagues impacted by the hurricane. Her commitment to community is a powerful reminder of how important it is to look out for one another during challenging times.
Local Heroes Making a Difference
Perhaps what stands out the most in this heartwarming story is how individuals in the wider community are also getting involved. Jacob Ridgway, the stewardship and events coordinator for Winthrop Athletics, took his efforts to Hiwassee, Virginia, where he’s helping with clean-up operations. “It’s a small community on the New River,” Jacob shared. “People there are rallying to support one another any way they can.” His heartfelt comment highlights the true essence of community spirit as families come together to restore their homes and lives.
Meanwhile, Ronda Collins, an executive support specialist in the Richard W. Riley College of Education, has made donations that are headed to the mountains of North Carolina. “My family and I love the N.C. mountains dearly,” she remarked, further showcasing the personal ties many feel toward the affected regions. Her family’s proactive approach includes supporting local businesses impacted by the disaster.
Creative Contributions
Creative outlets are even joining the fight. Jackie McFadden, the dean of the Ida Jane Dacus Library, decided to donate supplies through a new local art supply store run by Winthrop alumni. Sara English, a social work associate professor, also rallied support from her community, coordinating both food supplies and assistance for rural residents facing challenges following the hurricane.
Building Connections
From collecting blankets and hygiene items at Human Resources to donating cases of water to help locals with cloudy water supplies, Winthrop faculty and staff are truly committed to making a difference. Leslie Bickford illustrated this perfectly with her multiple donation efforts through local organizations, demonstrating how interconnected communities can be in times of crisis.
Winthrop’s Commitment to Community
The spirit of giving among the members of the Winthrop University community is evident. Whether it’s through monetary donations, supplies, or simply lending a helping hand, the faculty and staff embody the university’s core value of commitment to community. Even former faculty members, like Alice McLain, have joined in the efforts by donating blood to those in need.
As the recovery process moves forward, it’s clear that the bonds of friendship and community run deeper than the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. The heartwarming efforts of many in Rock Hill reflect a resilience that shines brightly despite hard times.
