Life in the Upstate Displays Community Strength Amid Ongoing Power Outages

Life in the Upstate Shows Resilience Amid Power Outages

Since Friday, many of our neighbors in the Upstate have been grappling with power outages, compelling communities to showcase their resilience and undying spirit. Residents are rallying and pooling resources to ensure everyone has access to necessities during these trying times.

How We’re Helping Our Furry Friends

The Spartanburg Humane Society has become a beacon of hope for our little furry friends in distress. Despite only having partial electricity, the shelter is eagerly awaiting full power restoration to resume its noble work of adoption services. The organization is running low on supplies and is currently seeking donations for cat food, dog food, cat litter, and newspapers. For anyone who can lend a hand, supplies can be dropped off at their location at 150 Dexter Rd. in Spartanburg.

Universities Offering A Helping Hand

On the academic front, resources are also being organized by USC Upstate. The university’s facilities, campus safety, food services, and housing need an extra boost. This call for help comes straight from the top, from the Chancellor’s office. The university needs crucial supplies, such as toilet paper, water, flashlights, paper towels, first aid and hygiene supplies, and batteries. Those who can contribute are being encouraged to bring the essentials to the Palmetto House at 470 Hodge Dr., Spartanburg, SC.

Community Organizations Stand Strong

Then there are community organizations like the United Way of the Piedmont and United Way of Greenville County, which have been tirelessly working to aid the Upstate community during this crisis. While the former has set up an online donation fund, the latter has been accepting donations at their office from 10am–4pm, Monday–Saturday. Among the most needed items are canned goods (especially pop-tops), boxed meals, peanut butter and protein bars, bottled water, diapers, baby wipes, baby formulas, hygiene products, sports drinks, first aid supplies, and cleaning supplies.

In a parallel effort, the Spartanburg County Foundation has established a Spartanburg County Relief Fund, where people can donate online or in the form of checks payable to Spartanburg County Disaster Relief Fund mailed to or dropped off at 424 E. Kennedy St., Spartanburg, SC 29302.

Churches and Volunteers Uplift Community Spirits

Our local East Pickens Baptist Church is also doing a commendable job by collecting donations for Pickens County. They have opened their doors to collect pet food, baby food, formula, diapers and wipes. Their committed volunteers will be on site until 8 p.m. on Wednesday and back again at 8 a.m. on Thursday.

These are challenging times, but our community’s undying spirit and compassion make us strong. Your help, whether big or small, makes a difference. Let’s continue to show support and unity by helping each other through this crisis.