SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Nansemond Brewing Station in downtown Suffolk has become the hub for relief efforts aimed at aiding those affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina.
The brewery has recently transformed into a donation center, collecting what they estimate to be $70,000 worth of supplies.
The effort has been largely community-driven, with volunteers contributing their personal trailers and fuel to make the trip. Social media has also played a key role, with displays of outpouring of support from local residents.
General Manager Victoria Howell, who has no personal ties to North Carolina, has taken a lead role in organizing the effort. Howell is personally driving one of three trailers loaded with donations to the hurricane-impacted areas. The supplies, which range from food and water to everyday essentials, have completely filled the U-Hauls headed to the region.
Howell partnered with Operation Airdrop, a volunteer group of pilots which has already delivered pounds of supplies via plane to Concord, North Carolina. However, when the group learned that drop-offs would end earlier than expected, they pivoted, now working with other charities to ensure the supplies reach those in need.
Howell says they are planning a fundraiser for Oct. 27 at MoMac Brewing Company in Portsmouth. All the funds raised will be donated to the victims of Hurricane Helene.