South Carolina Grapples with Post-Hurricane Recovery Efforts
With Hurricane Helene leaving a trail of devastation in its wake in late September, thousands of people in South Carolina have since been without power. While many have been grappling with dire circumstances, numerous individuals are in better positions and wondering how to contribute towards the ongoing recovery efforts. Below, we provide a detailed run-down of places where affected residents can seek help or render assistance.
Waste Management and Power Restoration
According to a recent social media update, the Wellford Landfill in Spartanburg County is currently open and accepting household waste from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Additionally, all but one of the recycling centers spread across various stations have reopened, operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The one station that remains closed is Station 8: White Stone due to issues with power and equipment repairs.
Meanwhile, the town of Pacolet is actively collaborating with Lockhart Power Company to restore electricity in the largely affected areas. They urge the residents to let the authorities know if there are still parts of the town without power, enabling crews to provide aid as soon as possible.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) Announcements
Among the leading recovery efforts is the generous provision of Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for individuals in selected counties, who became unemployed as a direct result of Hurricane Helene. Governor McMaster and William Floyd, Executive Director of the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, revealed that residents and workers from a total of 23 counties, including the Catawba Indian Nation, are now eligible to apply for these benefits. The eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for unemployment insurance and DUA through the MyBenefits Portal and unemployment insurance benefits system available online. All applications for DUA for the 23 counties must be filed before Monday, December 2, 2024, and proof of employment and other relevant documentation must be provided as part of the requirement.
Support Measures for Residents
In response to the catastrophe, the S.C. Department of Revenue (SCDOR) has allowed some tax relief for the taxpayers in the region. As per their declaration, certain returns and payments, which were due between September 25, 2024, and May 1, 2025, are now postponed to May 1, 2025.
Among other support measures, Greenville County Emergency Management has extended a helping hand to those residents who have suffered uninsured damages or losses as a result of the hurricane by enabling them to apply for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Fundraisers and Volunteering Opportunities
In a bid to extend support, 10 Texas Roadhouse locations in both South Carolina and south Georgia are hosting fundraisers that will be directed to benefit the families affected by the flood caused by the hurricane. Further, the Spartanburg Humane Society has urged the community to contribute supplies since they’re low on items due to housing more than their capacity.
Online donation funds have been set up by United Way across Anderson, Greenville, and the Piedmont County. Additionally, the Spartanburg County Foundation has established a disaster relief fund for donations that can be made online or through mail or in-person.
As the state gathers its strength to respond and recover from the disaster, everyday citizens play a significant role in helping the affected areas put back together the pieces of their community. With every small contribution, South Carolina is a step closer to restoring normality.
