Dry Clean City Rises to the Occasion for Hurricane Survivors
Johnson City — October 10, 2024
The atmosphere in Johnson City is a mix of resilience and community spirit as Dry Clean City steps up to help those in need following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. The storm has left many homes and lives in turmoil, especially in East Tennessee, leading to overflowing laundry bags filled with mud-stained clothing and personal items.
As we walked into Dry Clean City, the sight was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Trash bags filled to the brim with clothes were stacked high in bright yellow laundry baskets, just waiting for their turn in the massive industrial washing machines. Each piece of clothing tells a story – families affected by floods needing a helping hand to restore some sense of normalcy in their lives. It’s incredible to see how a simple act, like getting your clothes cleaned, can mean so much more during tough times.
Meet the Heroes Behind the Counter
At the center of this compassionate effort are the owners of Dry Clean City, Keith and Jamie Mijeski. They are truly making a difference in their community. When we spoke to them, their determination shone through as they explained how the business quickly adapted to meet the surging demand for laundry services in the aftermath of the hurricane.
“We knew we had to do something,” Keith shared with a warm smile as he gestured towards the bustling workers. “Seeing our neighbors suffer is not something we can just stand by and watch. We’re here to help clean their clothes and support them however we can.”
With their team of dedicated employees, Keith and Jamie welcomed the challenge and mobilized to clean the mountains of laundry coming through their doors. Every day, friendly staff members can be seen loading and unloading washers, folding fresh clean items, and handling bags filled with needs of those impacted by the storm.
The Process of a Helping Hand
The procedure is simple but effective: clothes are washed in the commercial machines before being dried, folded, and packed for their owners to pick up. As we observed, every bag of laundry is treated with care, symbolizing hope and recovery for the people who’ve faced significant losses.
The Mijeskis have also made arrangements for easier drop-off and pick-up. They operate several locations across the area, including:
- 436 W. Center Street, Kingsport – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday
- 204 Sunset Drive, Johnson City – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
- 425 W. Walnut Street, Johnson City – 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday
- 2112 Market Street, Johnson City – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday
A Community-Gathering Effort
As weather patterns remain unpredictable and communities scramble to recover, this initiative at Dry Clean City showcases the power of community support. It demonstrates how local businesses can lend a hand during crises, offering both compassion and practical help. The Mijeskis are actively encouraging community members to bring in their laundry, especially those whose homes have been affected, to alleviate their burdens.
Those interested in reaching out for more information can call Dry Clean City directly at 423-283-5400. They’re here to help, and every customer is greeted like family. In difficult times like these, it’s the little acts of kindness that go a long way in re-establishing hope and normalcy.
Looking Ahead
As the weather in Johnson City remains delightful, with plenty of sunshine expected and highs around 70°F, it’s a shining reminder of the brighter days that lie ahead after adversity. With each washed load of laundry, lives are slowly being pieced back together.
So whether you’ve been directly affected or simply want to support local efforts, head on over to Dry Clean City to lend your support and perhaps do some laundry yourself! Together, this community will emerge stronger.
