In Statesboro, Georgia, an impactful collaboration is taking shape as two Bulloch County organizations join forces to offer much-needed support to residents still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This partnership seeks to provide relief to those whose claims have been denied or who face needs beyond what their insurance or disaster programs can fulfill.

The Bulloch County Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) and Bulloch Strong have initiated what they describe as “coordinated operations” aimed at addressing the ongoing needs of locals. The initiative specifically targets individuals whose Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) claims were unsuccessful or who require additional aid to bridge the gap left by existing assistance programs, according to a recent press release.

“Many families continue to endure the lingering effects of Hurricane Helene,” stated Ryan Heins, Executive Director of Bulloch Strong. “With this funding, we have the opportunity to fill the gaps left by other programs, assisting residents in rebuilding, repairing, and restoring stability. A key objective is to guide those affected through the often complex processes needed to secure the relief they qualify for.”

The initiative involves case managers who will collaborate with survivors to evaluate their needs, orchestrate resources, and link them to the support available, ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery.

“Our community must know they’re not alone,” emphasized Frank Davis, chair of Bulloch VOAD. “This is the essence of local disaster recovery — it’s about neighbors standing by one another, long after the initial crisis has passed.”

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