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At a time of disaster, many people will choose to give to local charities and relief efforts to help those affected. Unfortunately, disasters can also bring out the worst in people; that is when those with criminal intentions step forward or make their way to a disaster area from another state.
While the Grand Strand at-large was barely affected by the hurricane force winds of Hurricane Florence, save for power outages and a few downed trees, the aftermath of Florence has been devastating!
Two years ago when Hurricane Matthew blew through, we at the Grand Strand experienced what we, Grand Strand residents, believed to be a historic 1000-year-flood. Only two years later these flood records are smashed, one after another by Hurricane Florence floods.
As many as 21,000 people have already or might need to evacuate due to flooding!
Keep your money local but make sure it is reaching those who need it.
If you can donate supplies, give volunteer hours, cook a meal, offer pet fostering, or can take in those displaced by the flooding, you can do that right now. There are several active Facebook groups coordinating efforts in the area.
Once the rivers have crested and water recedes, people will need continued financial support, cleaning crews, meals and supplies as they try to replace what was lost.
After our rivers have crested and then recede, and life goes on for most of us, some of our local Grand Strand residents will be dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Florence for months, even years to come.
It is important to remember that most business owners are knowledgeable, kind and reputable. However, not everyone is, so take caution. Here are some things to keep in mind!
Scammers are everywhere.
Here is the first reported local scam; someone has been reselling free sandbags to those in need.