GREENBRIER COUNTY W.Va. (WVDN) – As winter refuses to loosen its tight grip and spring struggles to make an appearance, flooding is inevitable. With temperatures beginning to rise and the snow that’s blanketed local communities starting to melt, water levels increase. We recently saw road closures, photos of high water and reports of flooding as homeowners and businesses scrambled to protect their lives and property.
The Patriots Motorcycle Club, whose mission includes supporting social, educational and charitable programs within their immediate communities, recently traveled to the Reclamation Church in Welch to deliver free hand-pulled pork BBQ lunches to those affected by the flooding. With a large smoker in tow, several Patriots arrived with to-go boxes, bottled water and enough food to provide hot meals to hundreds of local residents.
“We served 350 lunches,” said Brett White of the Patriots Motorcycle Club. “We didn’t get to see all 350 folks as some lunches were delivered and the rest was sent inside the church for distribution. The town of Welch was pulling together to help each other like West Virginians do in tough times,” he continued. “We were fortunate enough to be able to help a little bit today, but everyone we saw was super appreciative of the efforts of The Patriots.”
While much of the power and water was quickly restored to the community, there was still much that needed to be done. The Patriots were quick to lend a helping hand beyond the free lunches. Among their efforts, helping the church, sheriff’s department and state police unload a trailer full of water. “The Patriots Motorcycle Club harbor a spirit of giving, helping and providing a hand up where it is needed,” says Barry Crance, one of the club’s original founding members. “We couldn’t do near what we do without the wonderful generosity of our community. Along with our desire to help, we also love to ride these beautiful mountain roads that surround us,” he added. “We try to have several rides a year where all are welcome to join in. As any one of our members would tell you, it is an honor and a pleasure to serve where we can.”
The Patriots Motorcycle Club was founded in 2016 in the aftermath of the historic flood that impacted areas of Greenbrier County. As a result of the 8 to 10 inches of rain that fell in less than a 12-hour period, some communities faced catastrophic damage. As the water receded and the resilient community came together, unbreakable bonds were formed. While offering aid in the local flood relief efforts, the original eight founding members of the Patriots Motorcycle Club decided to combine their desire to make a difference with their love of motorcycles. Today, the group has grown to over 70 members and continues to support the local community through its Christmas fund and a scholarship fund for local high school students. For more information, visit the Patriots Motorcycle Club on Facebook.com/patriotmc2016.
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