Augusta, Ga. – Six months after the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, the Garden City continues its journey of recovery. This afternoon, a group of residents affected by the storm gathered at the Augusta Strong Town Hall to reflect on their experiences and voice their concerns.

Rebecca Jenkins, a local resident, described the events of that fateful day as surreal. “It was all, it was like a dream,” she said, recalling the initial shock of the hurricane. “But not the kind of dream you hope for– it was the kind you’d want to wake up from.”

For Jenkins and many others, the aftermath of the storm left them grappling with uncertainty. “We were like ‘what do we do next?’” Jenkins recalled. Her family’s struggles included having to crawl out of their home and navigate through fallen trees, mud, and debris. “Then our grandson came over, climbing over trees and rakes and mud, and everything else, to help us out,” she said.

These personal stories of resilience and loss echoed throughout the Augusta Strong Town Hall, where residents shared their stories and concerns about the ongoing recovery process. The event, titled “Remember Me, Augusta Strong,” offered a platform for Augusta citizens and surrounding communities to speak directly to those involved in decision-making processes regarding emergency funding, FEMA support, and other relief efforts.

Charlotte Garnes, Executive Director of the nonprofit organization ReNforce, played a key role in organizing the event. She emphasized the importance of community involvement in the recovery process. “Instead of people making decisions for us, why not be in the room for yourself?” Garnes asked. “As a community, as someone who has been impacted by the storm, this is your chance to share what your needs are and how your voice in D.C. and Atlanta can be heard.”

Garnes also highlighted the availability of resources, including emergency funding and grants such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). She encouraged residents to participate in surveys and provide feedback to ensure that aid is directed where it’s needed most.

For Jenkins, like many others, the recovery process has been challenging. Her family, displaced by the storm, found temporary housing at the Hyatt Hotel, which provided some relief with its small kitchenette. “We were blessed to get a place at the Hyatt hotel, and we were able to cook,” she said. “But we had to go out and get food because all of our food was ruined.”

As the recovery efforts continue, Garnes and other event organizers remain committed to ensuring that resources are easily accessible to those in need. “We want to hear from you all,” Garnes said. “Your input is vital as we continue to rebuild and recover.”

The Augusta Strong Town Hall served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the community, as residents continue to support one another in the wake of the hurricane’s devastation. Through ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the city of Augusta aims to ensure that every voice is heard and that recovery efforts are tailored to the needs of its residents.