Savannah River Site Rallies to Support Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

In the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Helene, the Savannah River Site (SRS) and its partners stepped up to provide critical support to the local community. Through a collaborative effort, nearly 40,000 packaged meals ready to eat (MREs) were distributed, and a significant financial donation was made to the American Red Cross to aid in the recovery process.

Powering Through the Storm: SRS Delivers Essential Supplies and Funds

Mobilizing the MRE Stockpile

The Savannah River Site, a key facility operated by the U.S. Department of Energy, maintains a stockpile of MREs to ensure essential operations during emergencies. When Hurricane Helene struck, SRS recognized the urgent need and swiftly mobilized this contingency supply. In a remarkable display of community support, nearly 40,000 MREs were distributed to various relief agencies, including the North Augusta Community Center, Aiken Regional Medical Center, Augusta University, MCG WellStar, Georgia East Central Public Health District, Burke County Emergency Management, South Carolina Fire Academy, and Allendale Emergency Management.The MRE delivery was made possible through a collaborative effort involving the National Nuclear Security Administration, the U.S. Department of Energy-Savannah River, and Savannah River Nuclear Services (SRNS), the site's administrative and operations contractor. This timely and strategic distribution of essential sustenance played a crucial role in keeping the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) fed during the crisis.

A Generous Financial Contribution

Recognizing the immense challenges faced by the community, SRNS also contributed a substantial $50,000 donation to the local American Red Cross efforts. This financial support was instrumental in enabling the Red Cross to continue its vital work in supporting those affected by the hurricane's destruction.Susan Landreth-Everitt, the local executive director of the Red Cross, expressed deep gratitude for the generous donation, stating, "Our work is far from over. With SRNS' generous donation, we will be there to support those in need as they recover in the weeks and months to come."

Chicken Strips Bring Comfort and Nourishment

In addition to the MRE distribution and financial contribution, the community's response to Hurricane Helene was further bolstered by a donation of fully cooked, breaded chicken breast strips from Gold Creek Foods in Gainesville, Florida. These nutritious and comforting food items were delivered to Augusta University, where they were distributed not only to the university's students, faculty, and staff but also to hospital employees and the broader community in need.Dr. Russell T. Keen, the President of Augusta University, expressed his sincere appreciation for the donation, stating, "This donation has made a meaningful impact, supporting our students, faculty, staff, hospital employees, and the broader community."Gold Creek Foods, one of the largest full-service chicken further processors in the United States, recognized the importance of fostering a sense of community and extending a helping hand to those affected by the hurricane. Mark Sosebee, the founder and CEO of Gold Creek Foods, emphasized the company's belief in "fostering a sense of community among our employees and our customers as well as extending that cooperative spirit to our neighbors."

A Collaborative Effort for Resilience

The response from the Savannah River Site, the American Red Cross, and Gold Creek Foods exemplifies the power of community collaboration in times of crisis. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and compassion, these organizations were able to provide essential aid, nourishment, and financial support to the CSRA, helping the region recover and rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.As the community continues to navigate the challenges ahead, the generosity and resilience demonstrated by these partners serve as a testament to the strength and unity that can emerge when a community comes together to support one another.