CORE Credit Union has set the bar for hurricane recovery efforts by making the first lead donation of $5,000 to the Bulloch Strong Recovery Fund. Their contribution will directly aid the community in the wake of Hurricane Helene, and they've thrown down the gauntlet, challenging other businesses to match or even surpass their donation to help the people of Bulloch County.
"We see so many needs that having immediate funds would allow us to navigate. We also understand how so many are still recovering from TS Debby and now Helene with tremendous needs. We will need to raise significant funds to help put this community back together. But if any community can lead the way, it is our community. This incredible gift from CORE CU in less than 24 hours of launching Bulloch Strong encourages us and gives us hope that others will join our efforts. I am phenomenally grateful for CORE's lead gift," said DeWayne Grice, Chair, Bulloch County VOAD.
The Bulloch Strong Recovery Fund, launched by Bulloch County VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster), aims to meet both immediate and long-term recovery needs. CORE’s donation will support the fund’s mission to provide essentials like water, shelter, and food while also preparing for the long-term challenges that local families and businesses will face in the months ahead.
"We knew by Thursday night that the storm was going to be bad, and over the weekend, we held a board meeting to discuss how we could help," said Bob Clampett, President & Chief Executive Officer of CORE Credit Union. "One of our big initiatives has always been to be good community partners, and this decision was a no-brainer. We wanted to make sure we were putting funds where they could be used immediately, and the Bulloch Strong Recovery Fund was the best way to do that."
Clampett hopes this donation will inspire other local businesses to get involved. "We’re issuing a challenge. If you think you can outdo us, go ahead. We’d love for other businesses to step up and donate even more! The goal is to raise as much as we can for our community, and if someone beats us, that’s a win for everyone."
Beyond financial donations, Clampett also emphasized the commitment of CORE’s employees, calling them the “CORE Army.” "Our employees are always willing to volunteer. They just need to know where to be and when to be there. Whether it's at food drives or helping with local efforts, they’re always ready to jump in, no incentives required. They do it because they genuinely want to help."
The long-term focus of the Bulloch Strong initiative was highlighted by Reverend Dr. Jonathan Smith, who is helping lead the recovery efforts. “Bulloch Strong is a long-term recovery fund that’s all about community resiliency,” said Smith. “Right now, we're meeting immediate needs like water, shelter, and food, but we know this is just the beginning. As people return to their homes, they'll realize the extent of the damage and that's when the need for long-term recovery will kick in."
Smith added, “The first 72 hours after a disaster is about survival—keeping people fed, housed, and safe. After that, the real work begins, and the Bulloch Strong Fund will be critical in supporting the ongoing recovery efforts. We’re grateful to CORE Credit Union for their support and hope to see other businesses follow their lead.”
As Bulloch County slowly recovers from the storm, the generosity and leadership of organizations like CORE Credit Union will help ensure the community can rebuild and thrive.