Clover Stands Strong: A Community's Response to Hurricane Helene

by Ricardo Ramos Seyffert on Oct 7, 2024

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Clover community united to provide relief for those affected by the storm. Allied driver Daniel Barrett spearheaded the effort, rallying local businesses and leaders, including Clover’s Mayor Bo Legg and Jobbers Moving & Storage, an Allied agent, to collect donations. With the help of volunteers and local drop-off sites like Last Call and The Wagon food trailer, they filled two trailers with essential supplies. The team delivered these donations to various locations in Western North Carolina, where they encountered heartbreaking stories of families in need. This outpouring of support showcased the resilience and love of the Clover community, proving that they stand strong together in times of crisis.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Clover community demonstrated an incredible spirit of generosity and resilience. Local residents, businesses, and leaders came together to support those affected by the storm, proving that love truly is at the heart of Clover.

The relief effort began late Sunday evening after power was restored. Daniel Barrett, an Allied driver, and a friend discussed the devastation reported in Western North Carolina and felt compelled to help. With an empty tractor trailer at his disposal, Daniel proposed collecting donations to deliver to those in need.

Knowing the importance of community support, Daniel reached out to Clover’s Mayor, Bo Legg, around midnight. The mayor was enthusiastic about the idea, immediately agreeing to facilitate the effort. Daniel also contacted Jackie Dover, the owner of Last Call, who quickly offered his business as a drop-off location.

By Monday morning, the momentum grew as Vicki Rigdon, who runs The Wagon food trailer parked at Lowe’s in Lake Wylie, volunteered to serve as another drop-off site. Word of the relief effort spread rapidly, and the community rallied together, eager to contribute. Chrislin Mobley became a daily fixture at the trailer, offering her assistance alongside numerous other volunteers.

The Clover relief effort even caught the attention of local news outlets, including WCNC News and Queen City Fox News. Representative Ralph Norman made an appearance to show his support, further galvanizing the community.

Together, they filled not one, but two trailers with essential supplies! On the following day, around 15 volunteers loaded up and set off for Western North Carolina, escorted by officers from the Clover Police Department. Their convoy was a symbol of solidarity and support.

Their first stop was at Elevate Health & Rehabilitation at Mission Hospital in Asheville, where they delivered much-needed supplies. Next, they stopped by Yancey Rescue Squad and concluded their journey at a Rose’s parking lot with United Cajun Navy in Burnsville.

Throughout the trip, the team met many individuals whose stories were heartbreaking. Families approached them, needing clothes and diapers, having lost everything to the storm. Some asked for help contacting their loved ones to assure them they were safe. The destruction was profound, with entire areas wiped away and roads gone.

This experience left a lasting impact on everyone involved, reinforcing the sense of community pride among Clover residents. The outpouring of support demonstrated that even in the face of disaster, the spirit of Clover shines brightly.

As the community continues to extend thoughts and prayers to those affected by Hurricane Helene, they remain united in their commitment to help rebuild and support each other in the days ahead. With the support of Jobbers Moving & Storage, an Allied agent, and the dedication of Allied drivers like Daniel Barrett, Clover stands ready to face any challenge. God bless the Clover community and all those in need!