A resident from Chautauqua County in New York took it upon himself to transport a trailer filled with donations from the generous people of Western New York all the way down to North Carolina, in order to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. With just a single social media post, an outpouring of support quickly ensued.
Blake Davis recently had a heart-wrenching conversation with his friends residing in North Carolina, just a few days after the devastating hurricane hit the region. During their phone call, he discovered the distressing news that his friends had lost everything they owned. Their homes were completely obliterated, leaving them with no choice but to seek shelter in tents.
“They approached me with a request, hoping that I could assist them,” Davis shared. “Their lives have been completely upended, with their homes being completely destroyed.”
Tuesday marked the start of Davis’ initiative to collect donations from his neighbors. Within a matter of hours, the lot became brimming with a wide variety of essential items that are in high demand in the southern region.
Davis mentioned that his phone has been constantly ringing with individuals who are eager to donate additional items or even offer financial support for his trip.
“It has been absolutely amazing,” he exclaimed. “The community has truly risen to the occasion.”
A group of dedicated volunteers have spent the entire day at the donation drop off site, eagerly offering their assistance. These selfless individuals recognize that although Western New York is located a considerable distance from the affected area, the residents of North Carolina are still their neighbors.
Irene Fain, a resident of Bemus Point, expresses the sentiment, “If your family is in a crisis, what would you want them to have? That’s what we’re doing here.”
Davis is dedicating a week of his time in North Carolina to volunteer. In addition to delivering the donations, he intends to engage in activities such as tree-cutting, road-clearing, and distributing warm meals.
He expressed gratitude, acknowledging that he will have a positive impact. He urges others who are able to do so, to follow suit.
Davis emphasized the importance of setting aside political divides in our current world and focusing on helping one another.
