The recent catastrophic flooding in Louisiana is considered by some to be the worst natural disaster in the country since Hurricane Sandy devastated the Atlantic Coast. On Aug. 14, President Barack Obama declared it a major disaster.
It prompted more than 30,000 rescues and left an estimated 40,000 homes damaged, according to the Associated Press.
The Fulton Sun employees want to do something about it.
Starting Monday, the Fulton Sun staff will be collecting non-perishable food items to be donated to Louisiana victims.
Local benefactress Brittney Eaton, who spends spare time cultivating a garden to feed the homeless population of Fulton, has volunteered to deliver the collected food to the needy victims.
According to a press release from the United States Department of Homeland Security, more than 80,000 Louisianans have registered for governmental assistance.
But federal funds, in this case, are not enough to care for the thousands affected by the flooding.
Jenny Gray, editor of the Fulton Sun, said she felt the need to do something and hopes the community is able to rally behind those in need.
"This town seems to be able to be about caring about people," she said. "Anytime anyone needs anything, everybody steps up and helps. We need to care for our neighbors (in Louisiana) too. Who knows, next time it could be us needing the help."
Gray said memories of recent flooding in Fulton caused many to reflect on the damage mother nature can cause.
"We had recent flooding, and thank goodness we didn't have anything horrible happen here as a result," she said. "Some people down there have lost everything."
Gray also insisted people think of the pets of the victims in their donations.
"Another thing too that's important is donating pet food so people can feed their animals," she said.
Those who wish to help their neighbor and donate non-perishable items may stop by the Fulton Sun office at 115 Fifth St. in Fulton between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If any donor has a significant amount of food that would be difficult to transport, they can call 573-642-7272 and make arrangements to have the food delivered.