Blythe community members asking for help to clear debris from historic property

BLYTHE, Ga. (WJBF) – People who live in the City of Blythe are banding together to overcome hardships caused by Hurricane Helene.

Residents describe Blythe as “a forgotten city,” as they are working to repair damages, give necessities to those in need and rebuild the wrecked area.

Police Chief Leondus Dixon said the city was basically gridlocked immediately after the storm.

“Every road that you travel that’s clear, we as a community did that with no help from any outside entity, and I think every citizen that lives here should wear that as a badge of honor,” he said. “And I sure do being the chief.”

Some who live here are without food and other necessities, and some are still without power – but, they’ve had events to distribute those items.

“During one of the food distribution drives, one of the local state representative came through and noticed the progress we made and he was amazed that we were able to do what we did without outside resources,” Chief Dixon said.

Trees still lay on roofs and litter people’s yards – one of them is Kim Lajoie’s historic property.

“It was built in I think 1916, these trees – pecan trees – were over one-hundred years old. And it looked like a city park, it was absolutely beautiful and we decorated it to the nine’s every Halloween and Christmas,” Lajoie said. “And it was kind of like the spot for everybody to come to, and now it’s all gone.”

Much of the debris blocking the house has been cleared, but there is still a long way to go.

Community members are trying to gather a group to help out Lajoie and other neighbors this weekend.

“We need a big group, and we’ve got leaders who know what they’re doing, they know how to drop things, they know how to move things safely, and they’re gonna come and we just need strong backs to come in,” said Renee Kaufman. “And if we can move down the street and help where we can, I mean it’s all about community to us.”

If you want to help, you can show up to 149 or 163 Murrow St. on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. with whatever gear you have.

If you want to donate to Blythe, you can drop off supplies to the Blythe Community Center at 3129 Highway 88.

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