Volunteers mobilize donation center as wildfires continue in Brantley and Wayne counties

NAHUNTA, Ga. (WTOC) - Volunteers have transformed an empty building into a central donation hub as wildfires continue to burn across Brantley and Wayne counties for nearly a week.

The Brantley Gas building off of Main Street in Nahunta has served as a collection point since Wednesday, offering displaced families clothing, baby supplies, pet food and other essentials amid ongoing evacuation orders.

“We wanted to help, and we showed up and the community and everybody really did the rest,” said Emerald Heinritz, an organizer.

The effort began after a social media post circulated calling for donations. Volunteers have since organized clothing by size and stocked shelves with shoes, sheets, blankets and other items families may need.

Center running low on key supplies

Organizers said the center is currently running low on children’s medication, pet food and laundry detergent. All types of donations are welcome.

Volunteers of all ages spent the day sorting donations and helping families navigate the space. For those struggling to identify immediate needs, the center has prepared bags with toiletries and a change of clothes.

“They can’t even process what they need at this time so we have bags ready to go with essentials, toiletries and a change of clothes,” said Jessica Johns, an organizer.

Caden Gilley, a volunteer, said helping has been rewarding.

“I enjoy it because I see people’s faces whenever we gives them bags of food and I like to see their smile,” Gilley said.

Heinritz said the response reflects the strength of the community.

“Thank you so much Brantley County for showing up you know you guys are amazing,” she said.

Donations can be dropped off at 114 Satillia Avenue in Nahunta, or 513 Whitaker Street in Savannah.