Wounded Warriors Help Families After Hurricane Matthew

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., Nov. 9, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Hurricane Matthew roared up the coast of the Carolinas last month, causing flood damage estimated at more than $1 billion. In the storm's aftermath, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) teamed up with other veterans service organizations to arrange events that help the communities they serve.

WWP brought wounded warriors and their families to the Second Harvest Food Bank in Fayetteville shortly after the storm to provide for families that lost so much during Hurricane Matthew.

"I have been blessed in my circumstances, and I want to be that example to my kids," said Eddie Grinie, an Army veteran who deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. "I want to show them that we should help our neighbors and organizations that aim to assist those in times of need."

Eddie and other veterans helped sort supplies at the food bank to disperse to families. North Carolina's Department of Public Safety declared states of emergency in 37 counties, allowing for federal assistance. However, food banks like Second Harvest can help immediately after a storm, making food available for families in need.

The program gathering at Second Harvest led many of the warriors and their families to look for other opportunities to help. Several volunteered to assist with additional efforts.

"It inspired me to volunteer for the American Red Cross and help with the damage assessment team from Hurricane Matthew," Eddie said. "My daughter and I also volunteered at the food bank again, and then out at Arnette Park."

WWP program events bring warriors and their families together for service opportunities not only to help the community but to help warriors on their individual roads to recovery. Spending time with other veterans who have shared experiences helps warriors create support structures and bonds similar to those formed in the military.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP connects wounded warriors and their families to valuable resources and one another, serves them through a variety of free programs and services, and empowers them to live life to the fullest. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

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SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project