FAMU students aid Tallahassee community after Hurricane Hermine

By Amaya Mann

FAMU Office of Communications

In the wake of Hurricane Hermine, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University’s (FAMU) students put their best foot forward by aiding the community.

During the last three hours leading up to Hurricane Hermine’s arrival, the Transfer Student Association (TSA) partnered with Leon County Public Operations to assemble and disburse sandbags to Tallahassee residents. Sandbags can be used as barriers against runoff and floodwater in order to prevent serious water damage to one’s property.

“We helped the preparing community residents make an uncountable number of bags, and even ended the day with a home delivery for a young lady who, as it turns out, is a FAMU alumna,” said Robert L. Merritt Jr., TSA’s president.

Although Rattlers were separated during the storm, their “FAMUly” bond could not be easily broken. Students continuously messaged one another to make sure everyone was safe, both during and after the storm. FAMU students use a popular group-messaging app called “GroupMe” as a quick form of communication and connectivity for student organizations, classes and even natural disasters.

The day after Hurricane Hermine hit the Big Bend area, FAMU students were out and about helping the community recover. Agribusiness students spent hours cleaning the streets free of debris, and they were not alone in their efforts.

The Upsilon Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. also took to the community to clean up debris. Darrein Goins, a third year Broadcast Journalism student and member of Omega Psi Phi, joined his brothers in removing tree branches from blocked off streets, as well as the yards and roofs of Tallahassee residents’ homes. “Upsilon Psi is always here to serve and help out whomever is in need,” Goins stated.

Not to be outdone, the Gamma Chi chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. donated various snacks and cases of water to New Life Church International, while on their mission to serve the FAMU Community and beyond.

Whether Rattlers shared food and a barbeque grill, or an air-conditioned, electricity woven dorm room, many showed their true FAMU spirit during Hurricane Hermine.

Angelique Fullwood, a third year public relations student took a trip to the gas station following the aftermath of Hurricane Hermine. Fully aware that she would be waiting for a turn at the pump, Fullwood chose to demonstrate excellence with caring.

“A girl behind me ran out of gas and her car shut off. A line of people were honking at her in frustration, but I got out of my car and helped her push it to the pump,” Fullwood said.