In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact, thousands of families in Pickens County are facing unprecedented challenges. The storm has left a trail of destruction, damaging homes and disrupting lives across the community.
We’re still trying to address immediate needs, and now, more than ever, our neighbors need our support. Access to food, clean water and essential supplies has become a critical concern.”
Vice President of Corporate Engagement United Way of Pickens County Jeremy Price
According to Price, Hurricane Helene’s impact on the local community includes widespread home damage, leaving many without shelter. Additionally, extensive areas, especially in rural Pickens County, remain without electricity, with restoration expected to take considerable time.
How to support your community through the Clemson Employee United Way Campaign
Currently underway, the Clemson Employee United Way Campaign runs through Friday, October 11, and is unique in its state-wide reach to communities across South Carolina.
When employees donate, their gifts stay in the community in which they live — helpful to know for individuals who work and live in a place other than the city of Clemson. For those who work and live near main campus, which is the lion’s share of Clemson’s contributors, their gifts go to Pickens County and can make an immediate and positive impact, including:
- Temporary housing and shelter for those displaced or whose homes were demolished by the storm.
- Resources to provide meals and essentials, particularly in areas still without power.
- Medical supplies, including generators for life-saving medical devices such as oxygen machines.
- Places for people to shower and wash laundry, especially those needing to return to work.
- Access to formula and baby food for our youngest community members.
- Assistance in checking on senior citizens while identifying medication needs and ensuring their safety.
- Help in clearing storm debris to make areas safe and accessible.
- Assistance in locating missing persons and notifying out-of-state relatives.
Your donation will provide immediate aid where it’s needed most, support local partners in disaster relief efforts and ensure families have the resources to rebuild their lives.
Donate to the United Way
You can donate to United Way via cash, check, credit card, or (most recommended) payroll deduction by visiting the United Way of Pickens County website. If you have donated via payroll deduction previously, your donation will roll over this year and no action is necessary. If you wish to increase your donation amount, you can do so through the link.
Additionally, the Clemson United Way campaign has teamed up with Aramark to host the following events open to all faculty and staff to show support. All events are from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Faculty and staff drop-in events: October 4 and October 11
October 4: Join Coach Amy Smith and the Clemson Tiger at the Masters Club at Memorial Stadium for cookies, popcorn and valuable information on how the United Way serves as a beacon of hope for the local community.
October 11: Please join us with this year’s United Way ambassador, Coach Amy Smith, at the newly constructed Women’s Gymnastics Facility. Come and indulge in a hot pretzel bar and learn how you can help your community through the United Way.