In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence with the death toll rising and the recovery efforts in the early stages, Century resident Helen Mincey knows what it's like surviving a natural disaster. Mincey lost her home and several rental houses on her property in the 2016 tornado that devastated much of Century and has her struggling to get back on her feet.
“I needed help, and I still need help, so that's why I've been wanting to do something for the victims of Hurricane Florence in the Carolinas,” said Mincey. “I figured I could get the community involved and we could make a difference.”
That's why Mincey is organizing a 'Cram the Van' campaign to fill her new taxi van with personal and other items to deliver to those who are struggling to regain their lives in the aftermath of Florence. Mincey said she is hoping the town of Century along with surrounding area churches will join her in her mission and donate cases of various items, money or gasoline cards to help her with funds to complete the trip.
According to Mincey, cases of products would be easier to transport, so donations should be by the case, when possible. Items on the list to take include: paper towels, toilet tissue, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mops, brooms, diapers (baby and adult), bleach, bug spray, laundry detergent, lotion, feminine hygiene products, deodorants, brushes, combs, shampoo, conditioner, cleaners, baby bottles, and bottled water.
“It takes $53 worth of gas to fill up my van,” said Mincey. “I figure it will need three fill-ups to make it there and back. That's where I need sponsors to help me pay for the trip itself.”
Century Mayor henry Hawkins announced that Century Town hall meeting room is the official drop-off sight for goods to make the trip at Monday night's council meeting.
“I know it will take some time to fill it up, but I would love to leave as soon as possible,” said Mincey. “I really hope we can get it together in a week or even less, so I can head up there.”
Mincey is hopeful that the community will pull together and help the victims of Florence and help her reach out to help in the time of need. She has set next Friday, Oct. 12, as her head-out date.
Contact Mincey at 850-501-9177 or the Tri-City Ledger at 251-296-3491 for more information.
