In a collaborative effort to support local relief agencies recovering from Hurricane Helene, nearly 40,000 MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) were recently distributed by the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), the Department of Energy- Savannah River (DOE-SR), and Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS). Additionally, SRNS contributed $50,000 to the American Red Cross chapters serving Central South Carolina and East Central Georgia.

As part of its Continuity of Operations Plan, the Savannah River Site (SRS) maintains a stock of MREs to ensure essential operations during emergencies.

“The MREs were originally purchased as a contingency to sustain operations during the COVID-19 pandemic and if not used, they would have expired in January,” said Michael Mikolanis Manager, NNSA-Savannah River Field Office. “This was a great win-win to support our local community by providing more than 39,000 meals to agencies and first responders working Hurricane Helene recovery.”

“It is remarkable to see all of us come together to successfully navigate this crisis and execute delivery of the MREs within 24 hours,” said Tammy Rimes, SRNS Senior Director of Supply Chain Operations and Programs. “The process of preparing, loading, and transporting the meals to each agency was truly inspiring.”

SRNS Supply Chain Management received support from Site Services Transportation and the SRS Fire Department to expedite the transports to various locations. Recipients of the MREs included the North Augusta Community Center, Aiken Regional Medical Center, Augusta University, MCG WellStar, Georgia East Central Public Health District, Burke County Emergency Management, South Carolina Fire Academy and Allendale Emergency Management.

“The leadership displayed across NNSA, DOE-SR, and SRNS is unmatched and essential to the success of SRS. We recognize that our employees and community are still recovering from the devastating impacts of Helene,” said Mike Budney, Manager, DOE-Savannah River Operations Office. “This is more than just a meal; it reflects our commitment to uplift those affected, and further support the brave first responders working tirelessly to help.”

In addition, SRNS contributed $50,000 to the America Red Cross of Central South Carolina and East Central Georgia for storm recovery relief efforts.

“Our hearts are with those impacted by this storm,” said Dennis Carr, SRNS President and Chief
Executive Officer. “By supporting our local American Red Cross branches, SRNS is helping our neighbors rebuild and recover quickly from this disaster. Together, we can turn this challenge into a renewed strength for our community.” Susan Landreth-Everitt, Executive Director of American Red Cross, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from SRNS.

“Nearly 1,900 American Red Cross responders are actively assisting communities across the Southeast as they come to grips with the extensive losses caused by Hurricane Helene,” said Landreth-Everitt. “Our work is far from over. With SRNS’ generous donation, we will be there to support those in need as they recover in the weeks and months to come.”