Georgia-Pacific’s Taylorsville Lumber and Plywood Mills partnered with local emergency services and county representatives to provide much-needed supplies to people affected by the recent storms and tornadoes in Smith County, Miss., and the surrounding area. 

Through their partnership with Convoy of Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disaster relief, Georgia-Pacific employees handed out items like bleach, Brawny Paper towels, water, and canned food, among other relief items.

“Through our partnership with Convoy of Hope, Georgia-Pacific has been able to serve as the hub for help as people in Smith County and the surrounding area look to recover after the recent tornado and storms that moved through our community,” said Billy Cruse, plant manager for Georgia-Pacific’s Taylorsville mills. “Our employees helped to distribute thousands of pounds of supplies that provided comfort and reassurance to folks who have been disrupted by the storms.

"This type of support makes me proud to work for Georgia-Pacific, and I know that our company will continue to look for ways to help keep our community and employees safe," Cruse added.

During the event, many county emergency services and local fire departments came to the Taylorsville-based mills for supplies, including employees from the Hot Coffee Volunteer Fire Department. 

“We were able to assist about 150 families in our community who were affected by the storms," said Donnie Barnes, the Hot Coffee Volunteer Fire Department’s chief. "The help provided by Georgia-Pacific and the Convoy of Hope was truly a blessing, and an awesome way to support those in our area who needed help.”

Employees at Georgia-Pacific’s Taylorsville mills have strengthened their community ties through charitable outreach and employee engagement, including volunteering at local libraries, blood drives, and events.