USCA Convocation Center hosts County Day to support those affected by Hurricane Helene

Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette attended the County Day event at the University of South Carolina Aiken’s Convocation Center on Oct. 18, a resource hub for residents affected by Hurricane Helene.

The event provided an opportunity for individuals to connect with various organizations offering recovery assistance, with similar events held across South Carolina to support those in need.

Representatives from agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, and United Way were present to offer their services.

Ben Dunkin, chief resilience officer of the South Carolina Office of Resilience, highlighted their role in housing recovery, flood risk mitigation, and resilience planning. “We’re here as a secondary line of support, helping residents repair their homes. We also offer mitigation programs related to flood drainage and water damage, as well as plans and studies for the City of Aiken regarding flooding issues,” he explained.

The Aiken-Barnwell Mental Health Center was also represented at the event, emphasizing its commitment to providing quality health services to residents in the region. Dr. Robert Bank, director of the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, said, “People often underestimate the lasting effects of such events. Even weeks later, individuals continue to struggle. This event is an opportunity to provide support to help them return to normalcy.”

Bank encouraged those facing mental health challenges in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene to seek immediate support from their team of psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists. “We’re here to help anyone in need, anytime,” he assured.

Nikki Gaskins, a media relations specialist for FEMA, stressed the importance of applying for disaster relief funding. Residents affected by the storm can call 1-800-621-3362 for immediate assistance.

This event followed USCA's previous support for hundreds of Dominion Energy line workers, who were accommodated at the Convocation Center and provided meals and showers while they worked to restore power in the region.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.