In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Coopertown mayoral candidate Robert Watts has launched a relief drive to support victims in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. The heavy rains from the storm triggered severe flooding and mudslides, washing away homes and infrastructure, leaving many without basic necessities. Entire communities have been displaced, and the recovery effort is expected to be long and difficult.
Watts took to Facebook on September 30, 2024, to ask for donations of essential items such as water, canned goods, clothing, diapers, and hygiene products. He also encouraged residents to include inspirational cards to uplift the spirits of those impacted by the storm. “We will be loading Friday afternoon (October 4th) and leaving early Saturday morning (October 5th),” Watts shared. Donations can be dropped off at Battle Creek Baptist Church in Coopertown.
The destruction in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina has been catastrophic. Mudslides triggered by the relentless rains have compounded the damage, cutting off entire areas, obliterating whole towns, and making rescue and recovery efforts very challenging. The roads, bridges, and homes lost to the storm are a grim reminder of the power of mother nature.
Watts shared his motivation for leading the drive, stating, “It has been on my mind and in my heart to try helping in some way. Monday (September 30th), while I was doing some work, this came to me, and so I headed it up right then. It has absolutely nothing to do with politics, and I don’t even care about any acknowledgement for doing it. I just want to help those that have lost so much! Especially the ones that lost everything!”
The initiative has garnered support from Coopertown residents, many of whom are eager to contribute, reflecting the strong sense of community that exists in Coopertown, where neighbors and friends come together to help those in need. These efforts remind us that, in times of crisis, compassion and action are what matter most.
