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Paine College Calls for Community Support Following $4 Million Damage from Hurricane Helene

Paine College Calls for Community Support Following $4 Million Damage from Hurricane Helene

AUGUSTA, GA – Paine College Seeks Community Support After Hurricane Helene’s Wrath

The vibrant city of Augusta is facing a significant challenge as Hurricane Helene has left its mark on the beloved Paine College. In the wake of the hurricane’s fierce winds and heavy rains, the college has reported damages amounting to an astonishing $4 million. The community is being called upon to rally together and support the restoration efforts.

Nature’s Fury Strikes

Hurricane Helene swept through the area recently, leaving a trail of destruction that has hit close to home for students, faculty, and staff at Paine College. The hurricane’s intense weather conditions wreaked havoc on the college’s beautiful campus, causing extensive damage that required immediate attention. Administrators have stated that while insurance and federal assistance programs, like FEMA, are in place, they won’t cover all of the significant costs.

According to a report from school officials, the campus facilities sustained numerous damages, many of which need urgent repairs to prevent further deterioration. Among the impacted structures, the Gilbert-Lambuth Memorial Chapel suffered massively, with its roof badly damaged. Winds tore away chunks of wood from the steeple, and numerous shingles were dislodged, leading to exposure of the chapel’s interior to the elements. The stunning stained glass windows, a hallmark of the chapel, were also dislodged from their frames, leaving them vulnerable.

Widespread Damage

The list of repairs stretches into a staggering eight buildings that will require new roofs, along with ten residential rental properties owned by Paine College. The effects of Hurricane Helene didn’t stop at the roofs, either. Interior rooms, equipment, and furniture across campus were compromised due to the soaking damage brought on by the blowing wind and torrential rain.

Adding to the heartbreak, over 75% of the large trees on campus were either destroyed or uprooted, altering the once-beautiful landscape of the college forever. Not just that, but perimeter fences suffered significant damage in large sections from fallen trees, restricting safe access around the campus.

To top it all off, the college’s beloved Baseball Field was completely destroyed, leaving athletes and fans with a heavy heart regarding the loss of a cherished community space.

A Call to Action

Gray Hall and Jackson Hall, that have been severely affected, also need immediate repair work.

With the support of the community, Paine College hopes to not only restore the physical structure of its campus but also reinvigorate the spirit of togetherness that defines the institution. Every little bit helps, and those interested in donating can find ways to contribute through the Paine College Hurricane Helene Relief Fund.

Join the Efforts

As Augusta rallies to support this essential educational institution in a time of need, individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to pitch in whatever they can. Whether it’s financial support or simply sharing the word, there are many avenues to help Paine College rise again from the damaging effects of Hurricane Helene.

Together, the resilience of the Augusta community can shine through amidst adversity. So, if you feel inspired to help, consider making a donation to support the beautiful legacy of Paine College.


HERE Aiken
Author: HERE Aiken

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