Jesup VFW opens 24-hour shelter for wildfire evacuees

JESUP, Ga. (WTOC) - Wildfires are taking a toll on Brantley and Wayne Counties, but help is pouring in. In Jesup, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4583 is stepping up in a big way, giving evacuees a place to sleep, hot meals, essential supplies and more.

VFW in Jesup steps in to help

While evacuation orders expand into Wayne County, the VFW in Jesup is stepping in to help their community.

What started as a late-night idea last Tuesday has quickly turned into something much bigger.

Inside the VFW in Jesup, the space has been transformed, now filled with beds, clothes, food, drinks, and essentials for anyone in need.

Even as road closures remain in place across parts of the county, including Browntown Road from Highway 82 to the Wayne County line, members are focused on providing relief and a sense of stability during an uncertain time.

For VFW Commander Jonathan Perrault, helping out hits especially close to home.

“I have a son-in-law who’s a volunteer fireman. He went and fought the fire in Brantley County, et cetera, and the surrounding counties. So, it’s pretty overwhelming, it really is,” Perrault.

The VFW said this relief center will stay open around the clock, as long as their community needs it.

They are still accepting donations, anyone who would like to help can see below: