Author: Malerie Fancher, Department of Plant Sciences
On September 26th, 2024, Hurricane Helene made its way to East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Of the counties affected, Community members in Cocke County saw devastation and destruction from record-breaking flood waters impacting Newport, destroying homes, small businesses, and countless other structures and community landmarks.
The University of Tennessee Gamma Sigma Delta Chapter was quick to act, donating over $1,000 to support relief efforts. Of the supplies donated, moving boxes, food containers, disposable silverware, water, cleaning supplies, and a variety of other goods were collected to support those efforts. Collected supplies were donated to First United Methodist Church and Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church in Newport, Tennessee. Several members leading support efforts praised Gamma Sigma Delta’s impact for support. For example, Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church fed over 1,200 community members in one day, and this wouldn’t be possible without Gamma Sigma Delta’s support. Embracing the volunteer spirit in times of need defines who we are, and we will continue to care for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.
