BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – The Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians has completed a major renovation of its community farm barn in Berkeley County, restoring a structure that was heavily damaged during Hurricane Helene and returning it to use as part of the Tribe’s food sovereignty efforts.
The project was made possible through a 2025 Lowe’s Hometowns Grant, a competitive national program that supports community revitalization projects. The barn had been left unusable after the storm, with a collapsed roof, rotting floors and unsafe lean-to structures.
Work on the renovation began in late August after the Tribe was selected for the grant, with the Tribal Board coordinating demolition and rebuilding efforts.
“Farming has always been an important part of how we feed people and bring folks together,” said Joshua L. Shumak, vice chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe of Varnertown Indians and community engagement coordinator with the South Carolina Commission on Community Advancement and Engagement. “After the storm, it was hard to see it in that condition. We’re really thankful to have it back and usable again.”
Lowe’s Red Vest volunteers played a hands-on role in the renovation. During an initial volunteer day, employees helped remove debris, damaged roofing and rotted flooring. A second Red Vest Day focused on painting the rebuilt barn.
“The Red Vest teams showed up ready to work,” Shumak said. “They didn’t just lend a hand — they helped us move forward at a time when we really needed it.”
By early November, the barn had been fully restored. Improvements include a new, higher roof with windows, rebuilt lean-to structures, a solid concrete floor and electrical service for interior and exterior lighting. The project also added a vegetable wash station with a sink and drying racks, allowing produce to be cleaned and prepared on-site.
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“This makes a real difference for us,” Shumak said. “We can safely wash vegetables, store equipment, and use the space year-round. It helps us better serve elders, families, and volunteers who are part of this work.”
Building on the renovation, the Wassamasaw Tribe was recently awarded a $75,000 Community Development Block Grant from Berkeley County. The funding will be used to construct a dedicated food distribution area and expanded wash station to further support community food access.
“That funding helps us take the next step,” Shumak said. “It’s about making sure the food we grow can actually get to the people who need it.”
The completed barn now serves as a central hub for food production, distribution and community learning. Tribal leaders said the project reflects continued collaboration among the Wassamasaw Tribe, Lowe’s and local partners to strengthen long-term community well-being.
“We’re grateful for everyone who helped make this happen,” Shumak said. “This is a space our community will use for a long time.”
