WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — What began as a small gesture of kindness has blossomed into a city-wide relief effort as Warner Robins mobilizes to assist Asheville, North Carolina, in the wake of devastating damage from Hurricane Helene.
The Warner Robins Public Works Department is coordinating multiple relief trips to Asheville. That city was ravaged after landslides, flooding and extensive damage have left many without homes and damaged nearly all roads in and out of the city.
Lucy Cabello, an employee of the Public Works Department, initiated the effort after hearing from friends in Asheville about the dire situation.
"When our dear friends reached out and said that they needed help, I figured what a better way to get some help than have some neighboring cities help out," Cabello said. “I just knew I should step in and do something.”
What started as a personal mission quickly gained traction within the city government. Director of Public Works Craig Clifton embraced the idea and took it to Mayor LaRhonda Patrick, who quickly threw her support behind the initiative.
"I'm just thankful to have team members who are compassionate and think about others and bring opportunities for the entire city to get involved," Patrick said. “This is the first time in my administration that we’ve done something at this scale.”
In just two days, the community's response has been overwhelming. The city's central receiving area has been transformed into a hub for collecting and storing donations. A Warner Robins Ace Hardware donated 84 cases of water, while the senior center contributed a significant amount of clothes and food.
"At first it was a little slow. I think people were, you know, a little nervous, but overall it's a pretty overwhelming experience," Cabello said. “We are still asking for help. Whatever you can provide.”
The relief effort is collecting a wide range of essential items, including:
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and batteries
- First aid supplies
- Personal hygiene items
- Clothing and shoes
- Diapers and formula
- Pet food
- Tents and sleeping bags
Mayor Patrick emphasized the importance of including items for children, such as coloring books, crayons, and snacks.
The city plans to make multiple trips to Asheville to deliver the supplies. Cabello and some volunteers will personally deliver the first shipment and stay for a couple of days to help distribute items.
"We're gonna go straight to the heart of it," Cabello said. "We are going to sit down and basically individually bag like toothbrush, toothpaste. So everyone can try to get something."
This marks the first time Warner Robins has organized such a large-scale relief effort for another state. Mayor Patrick sees it as an opportunity for the community to come together and support those in need.
"Hurricane season this year has been brutal, in my opinion," Patrick said. "So you never know when it could be you. That's what I really want people to realize and actually help encourage them to give more because of that."
Donations can be dropped off at Warner Robins Central Receiving, located at 210 Bay St, Warner Robins, GA 31088, until October 25. City officials encourage residents to contribute what they can, emphasizing that even small donations can make a significant impact.