Western New York residents continue to march in support of Hurricane Helene’s victims. Several groups are planning trips to the affected areas and appealing for donations.
Earlier this week, 7 News reported on Tim Berry and Shawn McMahon of the popular Erie County Blogger page collecting food and emergency supplies for devastated Appalachian communities.
Thursday morning, the two arrived at a VFW in Kingsport, Tennessee, with a trailer full of donated items.
Asheville, North Carolina, one of the regions hardest hit by the catastrophic storm, was to receive many of the contributions.
“They have no water, no electricity, nothing,” McMahon said in a Zoom chat with 7 News Anchor Jeff Russo. “They are running out of everything and need help. So we’ll bring those resources up to them.
“Literally, when we were leaving, they were going up into the mountains to get this stuff where it needs to go,” Berry recounted.
Both said that personally seeing the need prompted them to plan another donation drive and return travel to the devastated area.
“We are coming back down here,” stated Berry, adding that this time they are requesting contributions of clothing, shovels, and chainsaws.
Joseph Bellaus of Buffalo is also raising funds in preparation for a trip to North Carolina with friends to deliver critical supplies.
“They need everything; their houses aren’t even standing anymore,” Bellaus tells 7 News. “You see it. You feel bad; I guess you just go for it.”
Bellaus aims to collect enough money to fill many automobiles and will go to Chimney Rock, North Carolina, next week. Bellaus needs your assistance.
“Just like the Buffalo Bills, we donate all the time,” Bellaus replied. “It just feels like the right thing to do.”
We have also spoken with Gabe Casucci, who is working to assist first responders, as well as the American Red Cross.
Hurricane Helene wrecked several of the ambulances and emergency vehicles, rendering them inoperable. Thus, teams rent cars and Casucci ensures their needs are met.
‘Just something Buffalo does.’ Western New Yorkers drive south in search of relief from Hurricane Helene.
