South Bend First Responders Lead Hurricane Relief Drive, Community Steps Up

Photo byWSBT photo

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — In a heartwarming display of solidarity, South Bend’s police officers and firefighters have launched a donation drive to support hurricane relief efforts in the southern states. Led by Officer Joshua Morgan, who was inspired by his own family’s experiences in Asheville, North Carolina, the initiative has quickly grown into a full-scale operation, with both the police and fire departments mobilizing to gather supplies and offer assistance.

By Friday, teams of South Bend first responders will be loading up trailers filled with donations and heading south to provide aid in areas hardest hit by recent hurricanes. The effort has already seen overwhelming support from the Michiana community, as residents pour in to help.

Supplies can be dropped off at the South Bend Police Department’s front desk from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. through Friday. The urgency is palpable, with many first responders having personal ties to the regions affected, driving their commitment to helping those in need.

"The community really shows up when it matters," Officer Morgan shared, expressing his gratitude. "In just a few hours, the response has been overwhelming. The generosity of the South Bend and Michiana communities is truly inspiring."

As the trailers are loaded and the first responders prepare to head out, this effort demonstrates the power of local communities coming together in times of crisis—proof that when disaster strikes, neighbors will always step up to lend a hand.