According to a recent story from The Daily Citizen, a Charleston, South Carolina, flooring store owner found a way to give back to the community after a national tragedy. When nine members of Emanuel African Methodist Church (or Mother Emanuel) were shot to death by Dylann Roof, 21, the country stood by as the manhunt aired live on national television. Roof was caught by the authorities and charged with nine counts of murder, for which he will receive the death penalty.

Local store owner Rob Bullock decided to do his part for the church, and donated 450 yards of carpet to the church. Expected to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, the carpet was installed at a discount by Floor Coverings International. The carpet installation took place from August 18 to 20, and the results are beautiful, and not just because of the Cathedral Red color.

Curtis Callaway, director of associate communications and community relations with Shaw, commented:

“It was like rolling out the red carpet. It’s a small gesture in the scheme of things, in light of what happened. It’s something that we’re proud that we were able to do for them.”

Callaway also added, “For Shaw we try to evaluate opportunities, which are based on our corporate vision, which is creating a better future. That means for our customers, for our people, for our company and for the communities we live in.”

The church members are grateful for the gift of kindness, and Bullock is grateful that he was able to contribute in this time of tragedy.

“It was more positive than I ever would have imagined,” he said. “There was a lot of pain there as well, but they never came across as bitter as if they were blaming anyone.”

The church, and the community, continue to rebuild, with the help of local friends and family.