Some hurricanes are remembered for their wind damage, some for their rainfall, and others for their coastal flooding. Hurricane Helene will be remembered not just for its record-breaking size, storm surge, and destructive winds but also for the unimaginable devastation it left across an inland stretch of more than 500 miles. From Florida and Georgia to the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Virginia, Helene uprooted lives, homes, and entire communities, leaving a lasting impact.

The storm didn't just topple trees and powerlines—it cast families into uncertainty and hardship, some without power or access to clean water for weeks. As the storm moved out and the call for relief poured in, the team at the SRS Distribution office in Greenville, SC, led by Branch Manager Brian Mullinax, answered without hesitation. What began as a collection of essentials—water, canned goods, and bags of pet food—quickly evolved when it became clear that temperatures were set to plummet, and the expectation of a possible first snow was looming on the horizon. Noticing the lack of warm clothing being donated and the thought of families now facing the biting cold without proper attire, Brian put out the call for support, encouraging employees and friends across the country with a direct plea:

"Here's what I want to turn my focus to: warm clothes. Lows will be in the 40’s this week, and as you know it’s going to get a lot tougher in the coming weeks. I'm asking you to clean your closets, your kid's closets, hell, go clean out your uncle's closet and grab that 70's tan jacket that he’ll never wear again anyway. People up there are going to be desperate for warmth. Anything you or your companies can donate to that cause will be appreciated. Bring it to the branch in Greenville and I’ll make sure it goes to the right place!"

Jason Collins, Atlas Roofing's territory sales representative for Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina, answered that call for warmth. Tasked with helping communities in North Carolina, he reached out to Atlas' corporate office in Atlanta, and together, they went to work, collecting 21 boxes filled with coats, warm clothes and necessities, all donated and delivered to the branch. From there, coats were distributed to donation facilities and quickly reached families in need.

Strength in Community

In these challenging times, the compassion and generosity of people like Brian Mullinax and Jason Collins show us all a way forward. Their actions remind us all that even in the darkest hours, humanity shines brightest when we stand together, offering hope, warmth, and support to those who need it most.