In response to a request from North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper due to a water shortage, the City of Columbia, South Carolina, has stepped up to assist Asheville. South Carolina Governor’s office quickly coordinated with the City of Columbia to mobilize the relief effort.
“In times of crisis, it’s critical that we come together, not just as cities or states, but as Carolinians. I’m proud of how quickly our teams have mobilized, and we are committed to doing everything we can to support the people of Asheville in their recovery efforts,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann.
The city has collaborated with Columbia-Richland Fire Department, Columbia Water, and Barnett Southern Trucking Company to organize a significant relief effort. As part of the initiative, at least 40 tanker trucks, each carrying 6,200 gallons of water, are being sent to the Charles George Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Asheville. The Columbia Fire Department has played a vital role in ensuring the safe transfer of water to the trucks throughout the process.
City Manager Teresa Wilson emphasized the importance of helping neighbors in need, recalling, “Our neighbors were there for us during the devastating 2015 flood event, so we are there for them now. Columbia is a partner who will always help our neighbors; it is who we are and who we will continue to be.”
Clint Shealy, Assistant City Manager of Columbia Water, added, “It is an honor and privilege to help our friends in North Carolina during their time of need. In addition to life-sustaining safe drinking water, we also offer our thoughts and prayers as they recover from this devastating storm.”
The relief effort comes as Asheville works to recover from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, with the partnership continuing until further notice.
Frank Eskridge, Director of Utility Operations, concluded, “The City of Columbia is pleased to be able to render assistance to our neighbors in North Carolina during this time of need. We hope that the water they receive from our community will help them on their road to recovery.”
