Partners to provide long-term disaster recovery for Lowcountry communities
From staff reports
The United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC) has established a new Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG). This initiative is being launched with the generous support of a grant from the American Red Cross, which will enable lasting recovery resources for families across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties.
This is in response to the needs of residents following Hurricane Helene, as well as in preparation for future disasters.
The LTRG will serve as a hub, uniting government agencies, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, local businesses, and community leaders. This collaborative approach ensures coordinated and comprehensive support, helping individuals and families fully rebuild their lives and communities.
“United Way of the Lowcountry has always stood with our communities in times of crisis,” UWLC President and CEO Dale Douthat said in a media release. “Thanks to the generous support of the American Red Cross, this new initiative goes beyond immediate relief. It’s about coordinated recovery and giving families the tools and resources they need to achieve long#term stability and self-sufficiency.”
Kate Gill, the LTRG Director, will oversee planning, partnership, and carrying out recovery projects across all three counties.
The goals of the LTRG are to:
• Help families one-on-one with their needs and connect them to resources.
• Bring in volunteers to help with clean-up and rebuilding.
• Connect people to food, shelter, and other essential services.
• Plan to help communities prepare for future disasters.
In a practical terms, the LTRG can assist homeowners with post-Helene repairs and needs, and tenants can refer the LTRG to their landlords for assistance.
The LTRG can also assist after other disasters on a case-by-case basis (outside Hurricane Helene) with things like temporary roof repairs; food, temporary shelter, and clothing; and connections to local resource partners
If someone need help, United Way’s free 211 helpline provides 24/7 access to information about food, shelter, clean-up, and rebuilding services. You can get help by calling 211, texting 211211, or visiting SC211.org or by calling the UWLC helpline at 843-524-4357.
“When disaster strikes, it changes lives in an instant — but recovery takes time,” said Robbie Sofaly, Director of Hurricane Helene and Milton Long-Term Recovery at the American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross is honored to support United Way of the Lowcountry in this essential work. Together, we can make sure our neighbors in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties have the care, resources, and hope they need to rebuild and be better prepared for the future.”
For more information about the Long-Term Recovery Group or to learn how to support disaster recovery efforts, visit www.uwlowcountry.org or contact LTRG Director Kate Gill at 843-941-5042 or LTRG@uwlowcountry.org.
Step up as an LTRG volunteer
To volunteer your time, resources, talents, and materials to the United Way of the Lowcountry’s (UWLC) new Long-Term Recovery Group (LTRG), contact Kate Gill at 843-941-5042 or email LTRG@uwlowcountry.org. There are short- and long-term recovery opportunities to volunteer. Training will be provided.
