Donation of fans, dehumidifiers and heaters will help residents begin rebuilding
Two weeks after Hurricane Florence made landfall, residents of coastal communities in the Carolinas were just beginning their recovery efforts. Severe flooding still had many residents under water and left with little hope.
Meanwhile, 3,000 miles away, Hawthorne Gardening associates in Vancouver, Wash., (Sunlight Supply) were putting together one of the largest donations in ScottsMiracle-Gro’s history. With a retail value of more than $1.2 million, eight trucks full of Hurricane fans and Hurricane space heaters as well as Ideal-Air dehumidifiers were sent across country — four trucks each to North and South Carolina.
A dual use for hydroponic gardening products
Hawthorne Gardening Co, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ScottsMiracle-Gro, manufacturers and sells products to help people grow plants indoors. The Hawthorne products that were donated are typically used to aid airflow and to control moisture in greenhouse environments. And they can do the same for those recovering from the flooding and water damage after the hurricanes.
Time is crucial when it comes to restoring a home after damage like this. Mold can start growing immediately, which is a big health concern. Moisture needs to be removed from the walls and flooring before repairs of a home can begin.
This donation was made before Hurricane Michael hit the Florida Panhandle; however, those affected in Florida may also receive items from this donation when the time is right. The American Red Cross has stored donated items in a regional warehouse. Our fans, dehumidifiers and space heaters will be available for distribution to those affected by Hurricane Michael when they are needed.
Not the last hurricane unfortunately
Sunlight Supply made a donation of similar items to those affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas in August 2017.
Hurricanes are getting worse. Through Hawthorne and ScottsMiracle-Gro, we are hoping to work with first responder organizations to make additional donations in advance of hurricane season next year.
