Hurricane Helene Recovery Update: Community, Cleanup, and Resources

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 10-3-24

As Greenville County continues to recover from Hurricane Helene, we are seeing both incredible progress and heartwarming displays of community support. Here’s the latest update on cleanup efforts, emergency resources, and ways to help those affected.

Debris Cleanup Underway

The first round of debris pickups has begun! Over 50 trucks are hard at work collecting storm debris from county-maintained roads. Some trucks are large and powerful, while others are smaller to reach remote areas. This process will continue for a month, with multiple pickups scheduled on different days.

If you haven’t placed all your debris out yet, don’t worry—we will be returning! Make sure to place debris on the public right of way (near sidewalks, ditches, or utility poles) without blocking roads. Also, avoid putting it near power poles, mailboxes, fire hydrants, or vehicles. Important: Only disaster-related debris like loose vegetation, trees, and limbs will be collected. Trash bags will not be picked up.

Drop-off sites for debris are in the works, and we’ll share updates soon. Please take caution while cleaning up debris and keep children away from debris piles.

You can always stay up to date on these efforts by following Greenville County on Social Media. This is where I get most of my information to pass on to you! If you are on Facebook, follow us here: Greenville County on Facebook

Bob Mihalic has done an absolutely superb job during this recovery to make sure citizens are kept aware of what is going on in Greenville County!

Emergency Assistance and Resources

We are grateful that Greenville County has been granted a Major Disaster Declaration, making both Individual and Public Assistance available. Citizens can apply for federal aid at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.

As of Tuesday night, 55% of the county is still without power, but over 300 responders are actively clearing roads, searching homes, and assessing damages. I expect we will see those numbers drastically reduced by Friday and will keep you posted on where we stand.

For bottled water and MREs, a Point of Distribution is open daily from 10AM to 6PM at 35 E. Antrim Drive, Greenville, SC. Shelters are open at Hillcrest High School and Bon Secours Wellness Arena (for those with medical needs).

If you need help deciding whether to use a Medical Needs Shelter, call the SCDPH Medical Needs Line at 1-855-472-3432.

For non-emergency needs, United Way is providing essential services. Call 211 for assistance. The United Way of Greenville County has also launched a Community Relief Fund, and donations can be dropped off at 105 Edinburgh Court from 10AM to 4PM, Monday through Saturday.

Please report any property damage through the SC Emergency Manager App to help us with damage assessments and requests for federal aid. You can find the app in the App Store or Google Play.

Tips for Displaced Residents

If you’re currently displaced due to storm damage, here are some tips to help you in the days ahead:

• Stay connected: Follow Greenville County updates and sign up for FEMA and local emergency text or email alerts.

• Document everything: Take photos of your home and keep all receipts for temporary housing and emergency expenses. These will be needed for insurance claims or federal assistance applications.

• Seek shelter: Use the resources available at shelters like Hillcrest High School or Bon Secours Arena. These locations provide safe accommodations and necessary services.

• Access immediate needs: Call 211 for food, clothing, or other essentials. Many local organizations are offering short-term help.

• Contact your insurance: Start the claims process as soon as possible to receive guidance on temporary housing.

• Community support: Neighbors and local organizations are often the best support in times like these. Don’t hesitate to ask for help with transportation, temporary lodging, or supplies.

• Safety first: Avoid entering damaged structures until authorities declare them safe, and be on the lookout for hazards like gas leaks and downed power lines.

Community Support: A Bright Spot Amidst the Storm

It’s truly inspiring to see the community coming together in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. One highlight for me personally was watching my son participate in a prayer walk with Marietta First Baptist Church. This church has been doing an incredible job with their disaster relief efforts, despite sustaining damage themselves. The church, alongside the Three Rivers Baptist Association’s Disaster Relief team, has been offering free laundry services and helping to clear debris in the community. Their efforts, which include serving meals to residents and first responders, truly reflect their commitment to being a “lighthouse” in times of need. Marietta First Baptist

If you’d like to learn more about how they’re helping or get involved, check out their website: Disaster Relief Ministry

Thank you for your patience and perseverance as we continue the recovery process.

Stay safe - BBD19

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Key Contacts:

• Federal Aid: Apply at disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362

• Medical Needs Shelter Info: 1-855-472-3432

• United Way Non-Emergency Assistance: 211

• Greenville County Information Line: 864-467-3428 (7AM-7PM)

• For Emergencies: 911

• SC Emergency Manager App: Available in the App Store or Google Play