Greenwood, South Carolina: Community Rallies After Storm Damage at Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries
This week in Greenwood, the atmosphere has been filled with hope and compassion following the devastation caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene. The hurricane’s force was felt strongly at the Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries campus, a haven for children seeking support and care. Despite the weather’s harshness, an overwhelming show of community support has emerged in its aftermath.
Impact on the Campus
Unfortunately, the storm left a trail of damage across the campus, which is home to about 70 children divided across 12 cottages. Two cottages, Abney Cottage and Easterby Cottage, suffered significant damage due to fallen trees. Miraculously, while there were no severe injuries, a mother in the family care program did sustain cuts that required stitches. Onward and upward, one might say!
Power outages have also struck the area, leaving the campus without electricity until midweek. Additionally, fallen trees and power lines litter the grounds, painting a picture of nature’s immense power that even the oldest campus residents admit they have never witnessed before.
A Community’s Love in Action
Following these events, an *outpouring of support* has been observed from near and far. Donations have flooded the Food and Clothing Center, providing essentials such as water, food, and diapers. Even more impressively, 11 tractor-trailers’ worth of supplies have ensured that no child, volunteer, or staff member goes without.
Volunteers from all around have descended upon the campus to offer their assistance. Many are joining hands to clear debris and help restore the cottages to their former glory. Just the Crumbs ministry from Mississippi even made their mark by nourishing around 600 people – a mix of children, staff, and first responders – with warm meals.
Hope for the Future
Despite current challenges, conversations with kids spark optimism. One child asked with concern in her eyes, “Mr. Danny, will I get my pillow back? Will I get my home back?” Such heartfelt words only serve to strengthen the resolve of those dedicated to rebuilding the campus stronger than before. The focus remains on ensuring these children continue to receive the care and love they deserve.
The efforts also align with the organization’s broader mission of family reunification wherever possible. Some children have been reunited with their families temporarily, providing a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity.
Witnessing Resilience and Care
For longtime staff members of Connie Maxwell, recent events echo the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo, the last storm of this magnitude they can remember. Yet the underlying sense of gratitude permeates the air. The feeling is one of incredible support and love directed towards the campus and its inhabitants.
Times like these reveal the true spirit of community — lending a hand or the mere donation of essentials can significantly impact lives. As the trees are cleared and electrical lines restored, one thing remains clear: Greenwood and the extended community have shown they are ready to embrace Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries as they rebuild their cherished home.
