Kinston donation center helps Matthew victims
KINSTON (WTVD) -- The flooding from Hurricane Matthew has forced an estimated 400 people from their homes in Kinston.
With the support from community volunteers, a donation center at Vernon Park Mall is helping a hundred people a day recover the bare essentials.
Cassie Canady of Kinston is one of the grassroots organizers. She says some folks traveled from surrounding counties.
"It's a busy day every day. They are lined up outside before I get here at 9:30 a.m.," Canady said. "We do what we can to get everybody serviced that day."
Canady and her helpers are behind the spontaneous effort - turning an old retail store into a resource for the people who lost everything from Matthew's aftermath.
All donated items are from businesses, nonprofits, and individuals across the country. It's a blessing for those in need and for those fulfilling the need.
"It's a wonderful thing that someone else thinks of someone," Carolyn Dawson stated.
Dawson lost her home in the flood.
"Like the word says, it's a good thing to lay down your soul for your brother," she said.
Thirteen volunteers help with Canady's effort. They use shopping carts to locate items donated that meet the list of requested needs for each person.
"I wanted to give back to my community - being an Army veteran that's something that we always want to do," said Canady.
The donation center has partnered with the Salvation Army and the United Way. The center is located at the old Expressions store at Vernon Park Mall.
The center is looking for towels, wash cloths, hygiene products, non-perishable food items, baby items, clothing, and toys.
The center is also accepting money donations. Send them to the United Way of Lenoir County at 327 North Oueen Street, Suite 112, Kinston, NC 28501.
