Community Unites to Help Hurricane Helene Survivors
In the city of Bryan, Texas, a spirit of compassion and generosity is alive and well as residents come together to help those affected by Hurricane Helene. When disaster strikes, it’s easy to feel powerless, but not in this community! Numerous organizations and individuals are rallying to collect essential items and will personally deliver them to towns and neighborhoods in desperate need.
Pastor Jon Carroll Leads the Charge
One of the most inspiring figures in this movement is Pastor Jon Carroll from the Firing Line Worship House. He shared a heartfelt moment, saying, “I was just minding my own business one day, and God said, ‘I want you to load up all those toys and get more and take them to North Carolina right after that storm hit.’” This call to action has sparked a mission to lighten the burden of disaster survivors.
The church has pledged to gather donations and transport them to the Beacon Hill Church in Hopewell, Virginia, from where they will be distributed to vulnerable communities in the mountainous areas of North Carolina. Pastor Carroll explained the obstacles these towns face: “No one would know where they are. These little towns are almost impossible to get to right now.” The team at Beacon Hill Church is stepping up, navigating through challenging terrains on horseback and ATVs to reach those in need. They’re truly going above and beyond!
More Than Just Toys
While toys are a great way to bring joy to children in difficult times, Pastor Carroll highlighted that the Helene survivors need more than just playthings. “They also said they’re needing baby bottles and baby formula, and things like that,” he mentioned. The community is encouraged to contribute these essential items alongside toys to truly support families rebuilding their lives.
Remembering Our Furry Friends
Meanwhile, at JBG Plumbing, another heartwarming initiative is unfolding. Brad Gause, a team member there, felt the need to draw attention to a group often overlooked during crisis responses—the pets. “A lot of people focus and start sending in things to help the people. They kind of forget about the pets,” he explained. Gause and his dedicated team are organizing a collection effort to fill a massive 42-foot trailer with pet supplies such as food and kennels. Their goal is to ensure that pets hit hard by the storm are also taken care of.
They’ve made connections with local vet clinics and animal shelters in North Carolina to ensure that the supplies go directly to those who need them the most. As Gause aptly put it, “They can be kind of a burden if you’re having to take care of yourself, and we just kind of want to help people out and still help the animals out, too.”
How You Can Help
For those looking to join in this commendable effort, it’s easy! Animal food and toys can be dropped off at JBG Plumbing along State Highway 30 until October 31, while donations for toys and baby supplies can be taken to the Firing Line Worship House along Sandy Point Road until October 23.
It’s heartening to see the Bryan-College Station community rally together during such trying times. Each effort to donate not only helps those directly impacted by Hurricane Helene but also reinforces the bond of community spirit and compassion. Together, we can make a difference and bring a little light to the lives of those who need it most.
