The Ellijay branch of United Community Bank is collecting supplies for residents of North Carolina and south Georgia affected by the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
“Our team came together early last week and we started to figure out what we could do to help,” said Amber Davenport, UCB branch manager. “We started collecting items early last week. Employees have brought in, customers have brought in and communities have brought in.”
Among the needed items being collected are bottled water and drinks, paper products, toiletries, cleaning products, diapers, wipes, pet food and nonperishable food.
“These seem to be some of the items that are most needed,” said Davenport.
Davenport said the bank staff has already been able to take a pickup truck load of supplies to south Georgia and plans to take another truck load to western North Carolina this week.
“We have many banks, employees and customers in western North Carolina and those communities that were so devastated by Hurricane Helene and need anything we can give,” she added.
Davenport said they plan to continue delivering the items for at least the next week or two. All donations can be dropped off at the bank location at 558 Industrial Boulevard.
“We have a table in the middle of the lobby that’s been overflowing. We have a lot to be able to take and share, and we’re so thankful for what everyone’s been able to give in these efforts.”