(Bryan County, GA.) – Soon after Tropical Storm Debby hit the Coastal Empire, Rayonier made a generous donation to United Way of the Coastal Empire’s Rapid Response Disaster Fund to help residents in Bryan County impacted by Tropical Storm Debby and the related flooding. The donation helped aid in the relief and recovery efforts for residents in South Bryan County impacted by the storm.

“Our community is fortunate to have a dedicated organization looking out for its residents, and we are grateful for the difference United Way makes in the lives of so many,” said Kim Sartor, Community Affairs Manager at Rayonier. “At Rayonier, we are proud to support and remain committed to the well-being of the communities where we live and work.”

“We are grateful for Rayonier’s generosity during this critical time, and continued support,” said Brianne Yontz, Bryan County Area Director, United Way of the Coastal Empire. “Rayonier is an incredible United Way partner, and we are grateful for their commitment to caring for our neighbors and this place we love.”

In addition to the donation, Rayonier employees organized a disaster relief drive, collecting clothing, linens, non-perishable food, and water for the community. In the wake of Tropical Storm Debby, residents across Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, and Long counties faced severe challenges due to widespread flooding and storm damage. Many homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving families displaced and communities in urgent need of recovery support.

In response to this crisis, the United Way of the Coastal Empire activated its Rapid Response Disaster Fund to provide intermediate and long-term relief to those affected, ensuring that vital resources and assistance reach the most vulnerable populations during this critical time.

In 2023, the United Way of the Coastal Empire strengthened its disaster recovery efforts by formalizing a partnership with the Emergency Management Agencies of Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties to support disaster recovery.

Give to Rapid Response Disaster Fund

Donations to the Rapid Response Disaster Fund can be made by visiting the United Way of the Coastal Empire website at uwce.org.