AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Paine College is asking for the help from the community to help rebuild during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
According to school administrators, the impact of the hurricane caused immense damage to the grounds and facilities estimated at $4 million, and they state that even though the Insurance Company nor FEMA will cover 100% of the costs to restore the campus, there are repairs that must be addressed immediately or buildings will run the risk of further damage.
Paine College administrators reported the following damages: the Gilbert-Lambuth Memorial Chapel roof was badly damaged with chunks of wood blown from the steeple and numerous shingles dislodged, stained glass windows were dislodged from their frames, carpet and flooring were badly soaked during the blowing wind and rain; for each building that received extensive roof damage, interior rooms, equipment, and furniture were also compromised; eight buildings will need new roofs, ten residential rental properties owned by Paine will need extensive repairs and new roofs, over 75% of the large trees on campus were destroyed and/or uprooted, and perimeter fences were destroyed in large sections by falling trees.