Fall is a time when gratitude and giving take center stage, and it presents the perfect opportunity to give back to the Anderson community. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the need for community support is more critical than ever. Whether you’re donating food to support local families or lending a helping hand at relief efforts, there are several impactful ways to get involved this season. From food drives to home-building initiatives, your contributions, big or small, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by the storm. Here’s how you can make a lasting impact this fall.
AIM: 26th Annual Trick or Treat So Others May Eat (TOTSOME)
For 26 years, AIM’s Trick or Treat So Others May Eat (TOTSOME) has been a cherished fall tradition in Anderson, aimed at helping families in need. This initiative allows you to collect non-perishable food items for AIM’s pantry, ensuring their shelves are well-stocked throughout the year. In addition, the food gathered will help AIM prepare for their Thanksgiving giveaway, a critical effort that provides meals to families who otherwise may not have the resources for a holiday dinner.
Chik-fil-A has generously partnered with AIM this year, providing bags to use for food collection. Whether you’re part of a church group, business, class, or neighborhood, you can join in and make a big difference. Simply fill the bags with donations like canned goods, pasta, rice, or other staples and return them to AIM. To get involved, contact Sarah Skelton at sarah.skelton@aimcharity.org to start your collection today.
Hurricane Helene Relief: United Way of Anderson County
The impact of Hurricane Helene on our community and many others has been severe, but United Way of Anderson County is working with local nonprofit agencies to respond to Anderson County’s needs as quickly as possible. Here are some ways you can help:
- Donate funds: 100% of gifts will go to local relief efforts through nonprofit agencies in Anderson County. Duke Energy has already kicked off this fund with a generous donation, and now they need your help to ensure we can assist as many people as possible. Visit unitedwayofanderson.org/helene to donate.
- Donate food/products: They are collecting shelf-stable food, hygiene products, baby items, and bottled water. Drop off donations at United Way, located at 604 N. Murray Ave.
- Volunteer: They need help with upcoming food distributions (dates TBD) and clean-up efforts. If you’d like to assist, contact Liz at 843-910-7702 or email liz@uwandsc.org.
- Food Distributions: They will host several food distributions across the county (dates TBD). More details will be shared as soon as the dates and locations are finalized.
- 2-1-1 Helpline: For those in need, call 211 (866-892-9211) or visit www.sc211.org to get connected to local resources and agencies ready to help.
Every contribution makes a difference in helping our community recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene.
Habitat for Humanity of Anderson County: Women Build 2024
Empowerment and community come together on October 5th for Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build, where women from across Anderson will gather to raise the walls of a new home for a local family. This day is about more than just construction—it’s about coming together, building friendships, and creating a sense of empowerment as women work side by side to give back to their community. Registration to participate in the home build is now closed, but you can still support Habitat’s mission by visiting Habitat for Humanity of Anderson to donate and help make this build possible. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will help create safe, affordable housing for families in need.
Make a Difference This Fall
Whether you’re collecting food, supporting students, or donating to help build a home, there are countless ways to give back this fall in Anderson. And in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation, your involvement is needed now more than ever. Your efforts, big or small, will not only strengthen the community but also provide direct relief to those impacted by the storm. This season, consider getting involved in one of these charitable efforts—your generosity will have a lasting impact as we come together to rebuild and recover.
