JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4JAX is hosting a Positively JAX donation drive to support families impacted by the devastating wildfire in Brantley County, where more than 100 homes were destroyed in recent weeks.
The community collection effort will take place on Friday, May 8, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Channel 4, located at 4 Broadcast Pl, Jacksonville, FL 32207, with donations benefiting Brantley County Family Connection. Organizers are asking for a wide range of essential items, including non-perishable food items, hygiene products, household supplies, and pet necessities.
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Items needed
Organizers say some of the donation items being requested include:
- Non-perishables: ready-to-eat meals, canned goods, pasta sauces, oatmeal, cereal, snacks, drinks, baby formula and baby food
- Hygiene products: diapers, wipes, deodorant, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, feminine products, sunscreen, bug spray and basic medical supplies
- Household items: paper goods, trash bags, blankets, towels, batteries, flashlights, cleaning supplies and storage items
- Pet needs: dog and cat food, litter and support for local veterinary care
A burn ban remains in effect across South Georgia as drought conditions continue, and officials are urging residents to follow safety guidelines while recovery efforts continue.
How to help
Donations can be dropped off in person at Channel 4 on Friday or mailed to:
Brantley County Family Connection
10305 Main Street, Nahunta, GA 31553
P.O. Box 1011, Nahunta, GA 31553
Monetary donations can also be made online via PayPal.
Large trailer and pallet donations, excluding water, should be delivered to the Brunswick Exchange Club Fairgrounds at 101 Emory Dawson Road in Brunswick between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Wildfire impact still being felt
The Highway 82 Fire, which began on April 20, scorched more than 22,000 acres and is now about 85% contained, according to an update made by the Brantley County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday. The fire forced evacuations in the communities of Atkinson and Waynesville, destroying homes and displacing families.
While evacuation orders have been lifted and schools are reopening, many families are still recovering from significant loss. Officials say counselors will be available for students returning to class, and families are encouraged to take the time they need to heal.
For updates on the donation drive and ongoing wildfire recovery efforts, stay with News4JAX on air and online.