In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, the Town of Turbeville has come together to gather truckloads of donations for victims in some of the hardest-hit areas. Organized by Jenna Windham in partnership with Mayor Tammy Hicks, the small town’s efforts are a shining example of community solidarity.
“The family that owns Dorr Farms has been coordinating trailers to deliver donations from all over the area,” Windham said. “They have contacts in the mountains and have been working with different churches to find the most need and deliver there.”
When Windham realized that more trailers were heading to North Carolina, she reached out to Dorr Farms to combine their donations. The farm, known for its active role in community relief efforts, was quick to assist.
“They even came out Saturday and picked up the donations for us when we realized we had too much to deliver, which wasn’t a bad problem to have,” Windham added.
Turbeville residents contributed a wide range of items, from food and water to baby products and clothing. Some residents returned multiple times, eager to give more to the cause.
“We call Turbeville the small town with a big heart,” Windham said. “For someone affected by Helene, who may have nothing right now, what we are sending means the world.”
Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in North Carolina on September 27, 2024, left a trail of destruction across the state. The western mountain region, including Asheville and surrounding towns, suffered from catastrophic flooding and landslides. Relief efforts have been challenging due to damaged infrastructure and isolated communities.
Dorr Farms, based in Sumter County, played a key role in coordinating deliveries. The farm’s team filled trailers with food, water, and other essentials, sending them to remote areas in the North Carolina mountains. Their efforts were supported by local businesses, churches, and schools.
“In two days, we filled a 24-foot trailer with food and had to find another 20-foot trailer for more supplies,” a spokesperson for Dorr Farms said on social media. “We are so thankful for the community allowing us to help those in need.”
The donations from Turbeville are expected to reach some of the most isolated regions, where residents are still struggling with the aftermath of the storm. Relief efforts, including those led by Dorr Farms, are continuing as volunteers make regular trips to North Carolina to deliver much-needed supplies.
“We ask for prayers for safe travels to those delivering these donations and hope that these items will bless those in need,” Windham said.
As North Carolina begins the long process of recovery, the people of Turbeville remain committed to helping their neighbors in any way they can, embodying the spirit of community that defines their small town.
