Rebuilding Hope: Southern Baptists Assist Hurricane Helene Survivors
Six months post-Hurricane Helene, Southern Baptists are focused on rebuilding efforts after the disaster that claimed 248 lives across six states and caused $78.7 billion in damages. The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief has prepared over one million meals and repaired numerous homes, while local churches have seen renewed faith among the communities they serve. Financial support and volunteer efforts continue as they progress through rebuilding phases.
Since Hurricane Helene made landfall on September 26 in Florida, Southern Baptists have actively participated in relief and recovery efforts. As six months have passed since the storm, the organization has shifted its focus towards rebuilding communities impacted by the disaster. Helene resulted in 248 fatalities across six states and inflicted approximately $78.7 billion in damages, ranking as the seventh-costliest hurricane in U.S. history.
Josh Benton, Vice President of National Ministry for Send Relief, highlighted the extensive reach of the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) efforts, noting, “What set Helene apart was the widespread impact of the storm.” He commended the dedication of state disaster relief leaders and volunteers, stating that their sacrifices enabled them to meet critical needs while sharing the gospel in the aftermath of the crisis.
In the weeks following the storm, SBDR successfully prepared over one million meals, completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs, and witnessed 244 professions of faith across nearly 40 response sites in Florida, Georgia, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Virginia. As recovery pivots to rebuilding in Appalachia, initiatives such as Tennessee Baptists’ Arise and Build have been launched, with noticeable progress recorded.
Western North Carolina, particularly Asheville, experienced severe damage, necessitating significant response efforts. Todd Unzicker, Executive Director-Treasurer for N.C. Baptists, remarked on the collaborative spirit among local and national Baptists to assist those in need, emphasizing that their actions reflect true mission work.
SBDR’s initial phase prioritized immediate needs, including providing hot meals and cleanup assistance. With volunteers now engaged in assisting homes’ reconstruction, they have launched multi-phase efforts. Richard Weeks, who has been involved since early October, remarked on the unique challenges posed by the storm’s force and the difficult terrain in the recovery process.
The rebuilding strategy commenced by targeting homes in need of quick repairs to allow families to return before winter. Approximately 1,400 disaster response teams, comprising over 7,000 volunteers, have mobilized to aid Baptists on Mission in this endeavor. To date, roughly 130 homes have been completed, with around 250 additional rebuilds underway.
Many survivors, previously disconnected from their faith, found renewed hope through the actions of local churches and volunteers. Richard Weeks recounted stories where individuals, once detached from the church, began attending services again due to the support received during their hardships.
A particularly poignant example involved the family of a man with dementia, whose wife’s heart softened through their assistance, leading her to reconnect with Crestview Baptist Church, which celebrated numerous baptisms during this period. Additionally, some volunteers who initially lacked a relationship with Christ discovered faith through their work, culminating in baptisms.
Baptists on Mission secured a $3 million grant from the state to further support rebuilding efforts. Alongside this, Send Relief has provided financial backing, while N.C. Baptists are soliciting donations to sustain volunteer efforts into 2025. Todd Unzicker expressed confidence in the ongoing support, emphasizing, “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers” as they continue their work.
In summary, the Southern Baptists’ response to Hurricane Helene exemplifies resilience and faith in the face of disaster. Through organized recovery and rebuilding initiatives, they are extending support to affected communities while fostering spiritual renewal among survivors and volunteers alike. The partnership of local and national organizations has resulted in substantial progress, highlighting the importance of community and faith in recovering from tragedies.
Original Source: www.sendrelief.org
