South Carolinians sending aid to Gulf Coast

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Ever since Hurricane Hugo smashed into Charleston with 135 mph winds back in 1989, Charleston has been sending help to other areas ravaged by hurricanes. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is no different.

Two Charleston police officers left for the Gulf Coast on Monday and 53 more were to follow Tuesday.

The officers bring everything they need, from drinking water to air boats, said Mayor Joseph P. Riley Jr. He said workers from the city's fire department as well as city public service workers also will be available to help in the storm aftermath.

Charleston generally sends aid after severe storms as a way of thanking the nation for the help South Carolina received when Hugo smashed ashore 16 years ago.

Help from other parts of South Carolina was on the way to the Gulf Coast where Katrina struck with 145 mph winds on Monday, claiming dozens of lives.

Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright has established a relief fund for the families of the New Orleans Police Department.

"We want them to know that we are part of their team even way down here in South Carolina. Now is the time to stick together," he said.

Volunteers from the Piedmont Chapter of the American Red Cross were dispatched to nearby areas to wait for the storm to pass before being sent to the areas hardest hit by Katrina.

Volunteers from the Orangeburg area also planned to send volunteers as well.

"We are sending as many as are willing to go," said Cindy Smith, executive director of the Greater Edisto Chapter of the American Red Cross.

One of those volunteers is Joan Gera of Eutawville a Red Cross volunteer for 12 years who has averaged two Red Cross relief missions a year during her service.

"I am a firm believer that one person can make a difference," she said. "People ask, 'Why am I putting myself under this stressful condition?' We don't eat right, we don't sleep right, we meet with different temperaments and cultural experiences."

But Gera said there are things she can do.

"When I saw what was going on on TV, I thought I could do something to help. I can give a cup of water to someone. I can give a hug. I can do that," she said.