Volunteers begin cleanup effort for homeowners in South Carolina
An unexpected visit from Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers brought smiles to the faces of several homeowners still struggling to recover from Hurricane Florence. Hurricane Florence made landfall in the Carolinas on September 14, creating major flooding and life-threatening storm surges.
Armed with more than 20 Lowe’s Heroes volunteers, Peppers traveled to Marlboro County, South Carolina to assist with a cleanup effort. Lowe’s Heroes also donated time, tools and materials needed for the project. Together, Peppers and Lowe’s Heroes helped three victims start their recovery journey. One woman lost everything in her home due to flood damage from Florence.
Following such a devastating event, locally and statewide, Peppers knows victims impacted by these storms often struggle to get back to normal, day-to-day life. He hoped to address and ease that struggle directly through this relief effort.
“Once the media and cameras leave, these people are still dealing with the everyday problems. The damage didn’t leave,” Peppers said. “We just want to continue to shine a light and offer encouragement.”
Peppers words of encouragement and willingness to help were met with thankfulness and joy from homeowners. They expressed their thankfulness with hugs and positive words.
“I am so thankful for every human being who is out here today who is helping,” said Helen Hayes, a homeowner in Bennettsville, South Carolina. “I know that this world is made of love and this is proof.”
The recovery process is expected to be long and difficult, especially after overcoming previous flood damage from Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Because of Lowe’s commitment to helping these communities recover, the company will continue to provide relief and encouragement to homeowners in need.
Read more about Lowe’s response to Hurricane Florence efforts.
