Warmth in the Storm: How Community Support Is Helping South Carolina Recover

CWSBlankets Stories

In the aftermath of Winter Storm Fern, CWS is providing warmth, safety and stability to families across South Carolina. From distributing emergency blankets to offering temporary housing, we are meeting urgent needs while preparing to send additional blankets and kits to six more locations. Together with our supporters, we’re ensuring that neighbors impacted by the storm are met with compassion, … Read More

CWS Blankets in Action: Because of Your Love, People Found Warmth and Care

CWSBlankets Stories

As a dangerous winter storm swept across the United States, CWS Blankets reached communities just in time—offering warmth, comfort and care to neighbors facing life-threatening cold. Thanks to the generosity of supporters, partners were ready to respond before, during and after the storm. Blankets That Arrive When They’re Needed Most When a powerful winter storm swept across large portions of … Read More

Disaster Preparedness Kits: How Your Generosity Helps Neighbors Prepare for Tomorrow

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One year after Hurricane Helene devastated Haywood County, North Carolina, CWS donors and local students have come together to prepare 250 Disaster Preparedness Kits—offering comfort, resources and hope to families facing future storms. Community Resilience in Action On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina and left families in Haywood County facing hardship. Thanks to generous CWS donors, … Read More

Living a Generous Life

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Generosity is a way of life for Rev. Joanna Sameulson and she’s planting the seeds of generosity, justice and compassion early in her twin sons Henry and Malcom. “It is one thing to talk about caring for others, or to teach or preach about it, but it’s quite another thing to participate.” she said. Through their local church, Joanna, Henry … Read More

Finding Comfort in the Wake of Hurricane

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When Hurricane Idalia threatened communities in Florida this past summer, the vast ocean surrounding Plymouth Harbor Retirement Home transformed from a source of peace to one of danger. In less than four hours, staff had to evacuate more than 250 seniors, who average about 85 years of age, to safety. Many residents left with very limited belongings and strong winds … Read More

Your Support Makes a Difference: Sharing Hope through CWS Blankets

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Earlier this year, neighbors in Merced and Planada, California experienced severe flooding. Supporters like you were there with CWS Blankets and other resources –sharing love, spreading hope and giving help.  The floods brought destruction to the predominantly Latino immigrant communities leaving many without basic necessities or the ability to get them. “Communities that are on the margins are almost invisible … Read More

Bridging the Gap in Disaster Response

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“Our lives have changed.” “This was traumatic.” “It’s going to take so many years to recover from this.” These are just some of the things that Liliana Zamora, program manager at Community Bridges, heard from residents of Pajaro, California following the intense flooding that occurred in March. Pajaro is a community in Monterey River County and is separated from the … Read More

Replacing Fear with Hope in Merced County

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Imagine you’re asleep when you hear waves crashing onto a surface. For a second you wonder, “Am I dreaming?” until you feel the water creep onto your bed. You jump to your feet, making a splash, and your instincts kick in. Your home is no longer safe, you need to get out. This is what many families and individuals in … Read More

Making Changes Beyond Walls

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In 2011, Joel Edwards left his home country of Jamaica to start a new life in Brooklyn, New York. Eventually, his passion for serving others led him to the non-profit, Beyond Walls, which supports underserved communities in the area. Today, Joel is Operations Director and continues to serve and advocate for these families and individuals. Through the years, Joel has … Read More