“My passion is to help others and to go where there is a need,” said Ben. “Arriving in Panama City and Mexico Beach in the wake of Michael left me speechless.”
Ben Kennedy knows the destruction that a hurricane can cause. As a lowcountry resident and local builder, he saw first-hand the damage to Hilton Head Island during Hurricane Irma in 2017. When two back to back hurricanes with even greater destructive power made landfall first on the coast of North Carolina and then on the panhandle of Florida, Ben knew it was an opportunity to help people get through some of the toughest days of their lives.
Hurricanes the size and magnitude of these leave a devastating trail of chaos in their path. After they pass, the weather often returns to normal, but in those moments of passing, they can completely destroy homes, communities and lives. In one day, some residents will go from having everything they need to having absolutely nothing. The task of figuring out what to do next can be overwhelming and exhausting. Hopelessness and frustration can quickly take root as communities try to put the pieces back together.
Seeing the destruction caused by Hurricane Florence and then Hurricane Michael prompted Ben and the Brighton Builders team to help. As a three time cancer survivor, Ben understands the fear of not knowing what your future holds and how to be thankful for each day you have. In fact, his experience is what drives him to help others during times of need. “I do what I do because my life was spared,” said Ben. “God allowed me the opportunity to live, so I want to use the life I have left to help others and give back.
During Hurricane Florence, Ben and two of his friends took boats and trucks to Lumberton, North Carolina, to assist in water rescues. After Hurricane Michael, they solicited donations from the Hilton Head community for water and resources, and then quickly organized efforts to get the supplies to Florida. Ben established a gofundme.com account to make it easier for people to contribute. His facebook page allows people to follow their progress. “My passion is to help others and to go where there is a need,” said Ben.
Some people have made monetary donations to the efforts. Others brought supplies to Brighton Builders, and many businesses, like Sam’s Club, provided gift cards. In addition to taking supplies, Ben and his team are working to clear trees and limbs from people’s homes and streets.
“Words cannot express the gratitude we have for everyone who has donated goods and money toward helping others. I would not be able to do any of this without the support of our awesome community,” said Ben. The many items donated, the money contributed, and the prayers given are all a testament of how love and generosity can stretch across hundreds of miles to make a difference and bring hope to those in despair.
If you would like to donate, please visit www.gofundme.com and search for Hurricane Michael Rescue Efforts or contact the Brighton Builders office at 843.837.1119 to drop off supplies.
