Sumter business will give away free water ahead of Tropical Storm Debby's heavy rainfall on Wednesday, Aug. 7

Sumter business owners Scott Estep and Kevin Collins of J. ’O Gradys and Palmetto Oyster House look to give back ahead of the heavy rainfall predicted to affect Sumter.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, Estep and Collins will gather to give away free cases of water to those in need from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Palmetto Oyster House,  415 W. Wesmark Blvd.

“We have been giving water and other items out whenever there’s a need or an impending storm for years,” Estep said. “We always try to help the community we live in; we love Sumter.”

Estep said though they are not able to fulfill the needs of all in the community, they try to do their part and take the saying “it takes a village to raise a child" to heart. In times when those children and their families are struggling, especially in times of crisis, the pair looks to be there to lend a hand.

Cases of water are limited to one case per car. Estep said they usually give away 150-200 cases of water.

Anyone looking to lend a hand in passing out cases is invited to do so, as “it’s great seeing the community come out,” Estep said.