Southern Baptists Continue Rebuilding Efforts Six Months…

Southern Baptists have been supporting Hurricane Helene survivors for six months, focusing on rebuilding communities impacted by the storm. They have prepared over 1 million meals, undertaken 7,800 recovery jobs, and facilitated 244 new professions of faith. As the rebuilding phase gains momentum, they continue to mobilize resources and engage local churches in assisting affected residents.

Southern Baptists have actively provided relief to victims of Hurricane Helene since it made landfall on September 26, leading to over 230 fatalities and $200 billion in damage across six states. As they approach the six-month mark, the focus is now on rebuilding homes and communities impacted by this unprecedented disaster.

Josh Benton, the vice president for national ministry at Send Relief, highlighted the extensive geographical impact of Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the network’s strength in mobilizing resources efficiently to address the disaster. He noted the invaluable contributions of state disaster relief teams and volunteers dedicated to aiding survivors while sharing the Gospel.

In the wake of the hurricane, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) distributed over one million meals and completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs, resulting in 244 new professions of faith across nearly 40 SBDR sites in affected states including Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The focus in Appalachia has now transitioned to long-term rebuilding efforts, with initiatives like Tennessee’s Arise and Build already completing over 110 jobs.

Western North Carolina has been notably impacted, particularly around Asheville. Todd Unzicker, executive director-treasurer for N.C. Baptists, commended the unity among churches that has manifested in response to the crisis, underscoring the meaningful collaboration of churches across the nation.

SBDR’s initial efforts were directed towards immediate needs, such as providing hot meals and cleanup following flooding. Volunteers are now concentrating on home reconstruction, having already identified and repaired homes for families to return before winter. Richard Weeks from the Eastern Baptist Association expressed the distinct challenges posed by Helene, describing it as one of the most significant storms he has encountered.

Approximately 1,400 disaster response teams with over 7,000 volunteers have come together to assist in rebuilding efforts. To date, around 130 homes have been completed, with 250 additional projects in progress, according to Unzicker. He also noted the spiritual revival occurring as churches connect with their communities through these relief efforts.

Many residents initially felt lost after experiencing extensive damages, only to regain their faith in local churches when aid was provided. Stories abound of individuals rekindling their relationships with the church through volunteer assistance, with some volunteers even embracing faith and baptism as part of the recovery process.

Baptists on Mission secured a $3 million grant from the North Carolina government to support reconstruction efforts, supplemented by funds from Send Relief and ongoing donations via ServeNC. Unzicker expressed gratitude for the evident providence and grace from God, trusting that these efforts will sustain as the rebuilding continues into 2025.

The ongoing efforts by Southern Baptists demonstrate a strong commitment to both physical reconstruction and spiritual renewal in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Through coordinated relief work, substantial resources, and community engagement, they are not only rebuilding homes but also restoring hope and faith in the affected communities. These initiatives signify a holistic approach to disaster recovery, combining essential support with the sharing of faith and community solidarity.

Original Source: www.baptistpress.com