This past week, Hurricane Helene slammed into the gulf coast of Florida and continued to barrel inland. Catastrophic flooding has absolutely devastated our friends, family, and neighbors across the southeast. There are millions of people still without power, and entire towns and neighborhoods are completely isolated due to infrastructure failures after the storm.
We have linked several organizations and disaster relief efforts that are accepting donations. Even if you can’t donate, please help to spread the word--our neighbors need us.
The Charleston Firefighters Association Local 61 and the Charleston Fire Department are teaming up to collect and send essential items to support those in the Upstate of South Carolina and North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene.
DROP OFF LOCATIONS: Any Charleston Fire Department Station: Click to see a list of station Locations
When: Collections begin Thursday, October 3rd from 7am-8pm.
Here are a list of items you can donate to help:
- Drinking water/Gatorade
- Non-perishable food (canned goods, protein bars, dried fruit)
- Hygiene items (toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer)
- Cleaning supplies (bleach, disinfectant wipes, gloves, buckets, mops)
- First aid kits (bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers)
- Blankets and bedding
- Towels
- Trash bags (for debris removal)
- Flashlights and batteries
- Portable chargers for phones and small devices
- Rubber boots and gloves (for cleaning up flood damage)
- Tarps (for emergency repairs)
- Baby supplies (diapers, formula, baby wipes)
The Charleston Police Department is accepting relief donations at their Headquarters, 180 Lockwood Blvd., through October 11th for their “Pack the Trailer” initiative. All donations will be directly delivered when our officers are on-site. Baby supplies and formula are especially needed, along with other essential items, such as:
- Baby formula, diapers, and wipes
- Personal hygiene products
- Water and non-perishable, ready-to-eat food
- Over-the-counter medications
In addition, they are collecting items to support the first responders in North Carolina, including:
- Bottled water and energy drinks
- Protein bars or other quick snacks
- First aid kits and medical supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Work gloves, safety goggles, and other protective gear
- Portable phone chargers
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
If you need help unloading any items, please let our front desk know or call 843-720-2427, and they'll be happy to assist you!
Local businesses who are doing their part:
- WCBD News 2 is accepting supplies at their studios on Coleman Blvd. from 7 am - 7 pm Wednesday, Oct. 2, through Friday, Oct. 4.
- Hobcaw Brewing is accepting donations starting Oct. 1, through Friday, Oct. 4 during business hours.
- Murrells Inlet Fishing Charters, Perry's Bait and Tackle Shop, and Murrells Inlet Outpost are all accepting donations.
- Pet Helpers on Folly Road and Animal Helpers Retail on Savannah Highway are both accepting essential cat and dog supply donations.
- Fred Anderson Toyota Charleston is currently serving as a donation center for water and non-perishable items.
- The CODfather in Park Circle is accepting emergency relief donations.