NAHUNTA, Ga. – As some Brantley County residents struggle with the loss of their homes and others who were forced to evacuate worry they might be next, the tight-knit community is rallying to help in any way they can.
The fire has shut down schools and roads and sent smoke spilling across the area. Mandatory evacuations are in place in several areas, and officials are warning people to leave immediately if they’re in those zones.
In the meantime, the city of Nahunta, a town of about 1,000 people, hosted food trucks on Wednesday in the City Hall parking lot.
Tacos Del Ranchito and Shelby and Shane’s Country Cooking set up and served displaced families and first responders at no charge.
And the kitchen manager at a local restaurant, Jerry J’s Country Cafe, told News4JAX that her staff is making food for first responders.
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“These guys are putting their life on the line to try to save as much as they can of our county. We’ve got a lot of devastation going on right now, and they’re putting their lives out there, and we need to do what we can,” Jennifer Willis said. “It’s little. I feel like it’s not enough. But we are doing what we can to help them.”
Willis said neighbors have also stepped up to cover the costs of meals at the cafe for those who lost their homes.
The nearby City of Hoboken is also coming together to support those who have lost everything by accepting donations.
The city is accepting the following NEW or GENTLY USED items:
- Non-Perishable Food: Canned goods, bottled water, snacks, and pop-top meals.
- Toiletries: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products.
- Clothing: All sizes (Infant to Adult), including new socks and underwear.
- Baby Supplies: Diapers, wipes, and formula.
- Bedding: Clean blankets, pillows, and towels.
- Please Note: We ask that all clothing be clean and in good condition.
“Every little bit helps. Let’s show these families the strength and heart of Hoboken! Please SHARE this post to spread the word,” the City of Nahunta wrote.
For questions regarding specific needs or large donations, please contact City Hall at 912-458-2171.
On Saturday, there are also plans for a rally for people who lost homes in other communities like Atkinson and Waynesville.
It will take place at Heron Stadium, and there are plans for churches, clubs, groups and residents to set up tables of donated items for those in need, between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.
And Brantley County High School is also collecting donations and offering support for families affected by the wildfire.
“During difficult times like these, we want to make sure every student and family feels supported and cared for,” the school wrote.