- Project Overview: The Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians in Berkeley County, S.C., renovated their community farm barn, damaged by Hurricane Helene, using a 2025 Lowe’s Hometowns Grant.
- Restoration Details: Completed by early November, upgrades include a new high roof with windows, rebuilt lean-tos, concrete floor, electrical lighting, and a vegetable wash station with sink and drying racks.
- Volunteer Support: Lowe’s Red Vest employees assisted with debris removal, roofing, flooring demolition, and painting during two dedicated workdays.
- Leadership Quote: Vice Chief Joshua L. Shumak emphasized the barn’s role in food sovereignty, feeding the community, and post-storm recovery.
- Future Expansion: A new $75,000 Community Development Block Grant from Berkeley County will fund a dedicated food distribution area and expanded wash station.
Community Impact
This restoration bolsters the Tribe’s food production, storage, and distribution efforts, serving elders, families, and volunteers year-round. It underscores collaboration between the Tribe, Lowe’s, and local partners to enhance food access and resilience after natural disasters like Helene.
The barn now acts as a hub for farming, learning, and gatherings, aligning with broader efforts in community advancement in Berkeley County.
What aspect of this story interests you most—details on the grants, the Tribe’s food programs, or similar local recovery projects?
