University of Mount Olive Rallies to Support Hurricane Helene Victims in Western NC
September 30, 2024
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE, NC – The University of Mount Olive (UMO) is stepping up to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has left a trail of destruction in Western North Carolina. Drawing inspiration from Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,” UMO is embracing its commitment to servant leadership by providing aid to those affected by the devastating storm.
Campus Pastor Matt Sharp reflected on the opportunity to give back, stating, “Eastern North Carolina has been impacted by multiple hurricanes, and people have come from all over the state to serve us in our time of need. Now, it is fitting for us to serve them in theirs.”
In response, UMO is mobilizing resources and volunteers from across the campus community. A team of student volunteers, faculty, and staff will head to Western NC later this week. The group will assist in various relief efforts, including “mucking out” water-damaged homes, distributing meals, and managing donation intake. They will also deliver supplies essential for the recovery process. UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom expressed his deep connection to the mission of helping others and plans to also dedicate time to the relief effort in Western NC.
UMO students began their efforts over the weekend delivering essential supplies to the impacted areas. Veterinary BioScience student Gracie Gatton of Salisbury, NC, alongside the Animal Science Club, has spearheaded a collection drive to gather critical supplies. Gatton’s father, in partnership with the CAT Natural Disaster Team, is transporting the donations to the hardest-hit areas. The items being collected include:
- Sports drinks (Powdered packets)
- Hydration packs (Powdered packets)
- Water – Bottled or Gallon Jugs
- Baby wipes
- Diapers (children and adults)
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Plastic utensils
- Manual can openers
- Trash bags (13 gal or contractor bags)
- Non-perishable foods
- Cleaning supplies
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Bathroom wipes
- Pet food (dog and cat)
- Hand sanitizer wipes
- Feminine hygiene products
- Heavy-duty work gloves
- Socks (unopened)
- 5-gallon buckets
Another UMO agriculture major, TJ Lyons of Waxhaw, NC, is filling a trailer with livestock supplies and delivering later this week. He is collecting water, hay, feed, shavings, food, clothing, fencing supplies, etc.
Donations can be dropped off at the Agribusiness Center Conference Room on the first floor of Raper Hall, where they will be organized and sent to the affected areas. For those wishing to donate bulk items, special drop-off arrangements can be made by contacting UMO. All are encouraged to share this information with others who are looking for ways to help.
The University of Mount Olive has a long-standing tradition of service, and this effort further exemplifies their commitment to supporting those in need. With areas across campus coming together, the UMO family is actively embodying the principles of servant leadership through their actions.
UMO continues to invite the broader community to join in prayer and support for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Together, through faith and action, they are making a difference in the lives of those recovering from this natural disaster.
For those interested in volunteering or donating, please visit https://baptistsonmission.org/Hurricane-Helene or Emerge NC.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
