Deputies and sheriff staff from Columbus and Bladen got a firsthand look at the devastation of Hurricane Helene in the North Carolina mountains Monday.
Sheriff Bill Rogers of Columbus and Jim McVicker of Bladen led a team of 12 volunteers with two trailers of relief supplies to Bakersville, a Mitchell County town that had seen no help since the start of the storm. A 53 foot trailer and an 18 foot trailers were filled with goods donated by individuals in Columbus and Bladen.
“We were heartbroken to learn that they had not yet received any supplies,” a press release from the CCSO said. “We were the first boots on the ground.”
The trailers were carrying food, water and basic necessities. Rogers said in the press release that it will be three months before electricity is restored in some areas. The relief team is heading back out tonight (Wednesday) with more supplies.
“And this won’t be the last,” Rogers said. “We are committed to returning to not only help the small towns, like the one we were in, but to bring relief to the entire county. The need for essentials is still urgent, and we are calling on our community to continue your generous efforts.”
Deputies assisted in the loading and unloading of helicopters as well as clearing debris from roadways.
The most immediate needs, Rogers said, are
- Gas or charcoal grills with charcoal and small camping-sized propane tanks
- Chainsaw oil
- Non-perishable food (such as canned goods)
- Bottled water
- Female hygiene products
- Baby supplies (diapers, wipes, formula)
Donations can be dropped off at the sheriff’s office on Washington Street between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Supplies that are dropped off today (Wednesday) can be loaded and sent tonight.
“We are also planning another supply run next week, and we encourage local businesses and agencies collecting donations to bring what they have to us so we can transport it to those in need,” Rogers said.
“In times of crisis, we see the true spirit of our people,” he said. “What we’ve seen in these past days has been nothing short of remarkable. The outpouring of support, the donations that have poured in from our communities, speak volumes about who we are as a county. It’s in these moments—when people are hurting, when homes are lost, when futures feel uncertain—that we come together as one. Columbus County has shown what it means to be a family, and together, we will continue to stand strong for our brothers and sisters in Western North Carolina. “We couldn’t have made this journey to support the victims of Hurricane Helene without the love, kindness, and generosity of each and every one of you—you are the heart and soul of this mission. Whether you donated supplies, gave a helping hand, or simply spread the word, you are part of something bigger. Together, we are showing the world that Columbus County stands by its neighbors, no matter the distance.”
Rogers said his agency is looking at assisting storm victims long-term.
“The aftermath of Hurricane Helene will affect these families for months, if not years,” he said. “Together, as a community, we will help them rebuild, one step at a time. We want to thank everyone who has already contributed—the businesses, community leaders, first responders, and individuals—your efforts have not gone unnoticed.
“Remember, we are stronger when we stand together. Let’s keep this momentum going, because we are their hope, and together, we are making a difference.”
CCSO Spokesperson Jenna Jalving said crews were preparing for their second trip Wednesday night.
“We couldn’t do this without the support and generosity of the communities,” she said. “We are blessed to have so many amazing people helping.”
