Wayne Community College concluded its Warmth for the West campaign by delivering the collected donations to Blue Ridge Community College, providing cold-weather items to those still affected by Hurricane Helene.
WCC President Patty Pfeiffer, Vice President of Academic and Student Services Brandon Jenkins, and Executive Director of the Foundation of WCC Emily Byrd traveled to Flat Rock, to personally deliver the items to Blue Ridge Community College.
“It was truly heartwarming to personally deliver our donations to Blue Ridge Community College and witness firsthand the impact we’re making,” said Pfeiffer. “Seeing the gratitude expressed and knowing that Wayne Community College is helping make a difference was an unforgettable experience.”
The donated items are now part of Blue Ridge Community College’s resource distribution center that provides support for students who have lost their homes and belongings. They may visit the center to collect items for themselves and their families.
“These generous donations from our friends and colleagues at Wayne Community College are already making a meaningful impact, supporting students who have faced tremendous losses due to the hurricane,” said Benjamin Rickert, Blue Ridge Community College communications director. “As the winter continues, these essential items are providing warmth, security, and encouragement to the many students who have turned to our resource distribution center for help.”
WCC administrators were given a tour of the campus by Blue Ridge Community College personnel after delivering the donations.
“It means so much that your team traveled this great distance to care for our students and college,” said Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, Blue Ridge Community College president. “Please share our warmest gratitude with your students, employees, supporters, partners, and churches who made this generous donation possible. Your help is truly appreciated.”
Hurricane Helene inflicted widespread catastrophic destruction on Western North Carolina in September.
Blue Ridge Community College was closed for over two weeks after the storm.
Schools within the North Carolina Community College System “adopted” colleges in Western North Carolina to help ensure adequate resources were sent to each area.
During their January meeting, Blue Ridge Community College’s Board of Trustees adopted a Resolution of Gratitude to recognize the 13 community colleges across the state who offered assistance following the hurricane.
