Over the weekend, severe weather claimed the lives of at least 26 people and left widespread destruction across many residences and businesses in the southeast. 

To provide assistance in the aftermath of the storms, Southwire’s Project GIFT volunteers in Starkville, Mississippi are hosting a disaster relief collection at the Starkville Walmart now through Friday, March 31, at 6 P.M. The items collected from the in-person drive will benefit Amory, Silver City and Rolling Fork, Miss. 

Some of the items accepted through the collection include bottled water, paper goods, cleaning supplies, nonperishable food, baby items, pet supplies, personal hygiene products and more. 

“Immediately after waking up the day after the storms, I knew we needed to bring the Project GIFT truck over to Mississippi to help families, friends and the communities impacted by the storms as quickly as possible. This is something that is very near and dear to my heart,” said Natalie Henley, People & Culture manager. “I am proud of how our Southwire family has come together to be there for others when they need it most. Nobody ever expects anything like this to happen so close to them.”

In addition to the on-site collection in Mississippi, Southwire’s Project GIFT will be hosting a monetary collection to support those impacted by the storms in Mississippi and in Troup County, Ga. 

“Being present and ready to respond in times of natural disaster has been at the heart of Project GIFT since its inception,” said Wil Rainey, Giving Back specialist. “Southwire is committed to supporting those impacted by this devastation. We are thankful for the volunteers who are stepping forth to make a difference during this difficult time, and we want to thank those in the community who are joining with us through these efforts.”

For those who wish to donate, an online portal for credit card donations is available through the Community Foundation of West Georgia by visiting their website, clicking donate and selecting Southwire’s Project GIFT or directly at https://cfwg.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1396 . 

To learn more about Southwire’s commitment to Giving Back, visit  www.southwire.com/sustainability. For more Southwire news, visit www.southwire.com/newsroom.