Shortly after Hurricane Helene struck the Coastal Empire, WM made a generous  donation of $100,000 to United Way of the Coastal Empire’s Rapid Response Disaster Fund. This  contribution is helping residents in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, and Long Counties recover from  the devastating storms and flooding. 

“The recent hurricane and flooding have deeply impacted the Savannah community, and the strength  and resilience of our neighbors have been truly inspiring,” said Tracey Shrader, Area Vice President at  WM. “At WM, we believe in standing with the communities we serve, especially in times of need. By  partnering with United Way of the Coastal Empire, our contribution will provide vital relief and resources  to those affected, helping them rebuild and recover stronger than ever.” 

“WM’s commitment to supporting our community during these challenging times is a testament to their  dedication to the people they serve,” said Kimberly Waller, President and CEO of United Way of the  Coastal Empire. “We are deeply grateful for WM’s incredible generosity and the caring power of this  community. Together, we are improving the lives of our neighbors and this region.” 

In the aftermath of the storms that swept through our region in the fall, residents across Bryan,  Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, and Long counties have faced significant challenges, including  widespread flooding and extensive storm damage. Many homes were destroyed, and several families  were displaced, leaving communities in urgent need of support as they embark on the long road to  recovery. 

In 2023, United Way of the Coastal Empire launched formal partnerships with the Emergency  Management Agencies across our counties to support disaster recovery. To address this current crisis,  the United Way of the Coastal Empire swiftly activated its Rapid Response Disaster Fund. This fund is  dedicated to providing both short-term relief and long-term support to those most affected, ensuring 

that vital resources reach the most vulnerable populations during this critical time. Together, we are  working to help our neighbors rebuild their lives and restore hope in the face of adversity.