Local group working to get much needed items to East Tennessee after Helene
Two women sprung into action after seeing the damage left behind from Hurricane Helene.
ASHLAND CITY, Tenn. (WSMV) - Torrie Thomas and her friend Chastity Shortt said they had to do something after seeing the widespread damage left behind by Helene.
“It broke my heart,” Thomas said. “So I texted my girlfriend and said, ‘Hey let’s do something.’ Within an hour we had a trailer, a driver and a place to set up.”
Parked at the Tractor Supply in Ashland City, Thomas and Shortt said they are still collecting donations.
”The people of the community have been great,” Thomas said. “I mean you can see the water the donations we’re getting are just unbelievable.”
The women connected with local officials in Carter County in Tennessee and determined what supplies were needed.
”Water is the main need right now,” Thomas said.
They’re also collecting diapers, wipes, toilet paper and other personal hygiene items.
TEMA also warns not to send items on your own that authorities have not requested.
They will collect donations on Tuesday and deliver the items on Wednesday.
The pair hopes as the donations increase they’ll be able to show others why Tennessee is called ‘The Volunteer State.’
”If you just bring a roll of toilet paper or a thing of water I mean anything helps at this point,” Thomas said.
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