Bedford County Technical Center Joins Local Churches and Volunteers to Aid North Carolina Residents with Cold Weather Shelters
Bedford, PA – December 6, 2024 – The Bedford County Technical Center (BCTC) has partnered with local churches and community volunteers to provide relief to North Carolina residents still grappling with the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. This grassroots effort began with individuals and churches working with a search and recovery initiative to help those displaced by the storm.
Leading the charge is a dedicated volunteer who has traveled to North Carolina every two weeks to coordinate recovery efforts. With many families resorting to tents as their only form of shelter, the need for cold-weather housing became urgent. The initiative focuses on constructing 12’ x 16’ cold-weather shelters, providing a safer and warmer alternative for residents as they rebuild their lives.
In a remarkable display of collaboration and generosity, BCTC students joined the effort to create and assemble the components for these shelters. Materials for the project, including trusses, were donated by local churches and individuals. Students worked tirelessly across multiple sessions, cutting materials using a jig and assembling trusses. In just two days, the students constructed enough trusses to complete 16 cold-weather shelters, with one session alone producing 49 trusses thanks to the groundwork laid by earlier sessions.
“This has been a transformative experience for our students, giving them the opportunity to use their skills in a meaningful way,” said Steve Sellers, Building Construction Teacher at Bedford County Technical Center. “Not only are they gaining hands-on experience in construction, but they’re also seeing the power of teamwork and compassion in action.”
The shelters are part of a larger effort to provide immediate, temporary housing solutions for hurricane survivors while permanent rebuilding takes place.
BCTC is proud to be a part of this initiative, highlighting the strength of community and the impact of service learning. The partnership exemplifies how local efforts, driven by determination and kindness, can make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing unimaginable hardship.
For more information about this project or how you can support the efforts, please contact Steve Sellers, Building Construction Teacher at 814-623-2760.
