Southern Baptists Continue Rebuilding Efforts After Hurricane Helene
Southern Baptists have been assisting Hurricane Helene survivors for six months, focusing on rebuilding communities after the storm caused over 230 deaths and $200 billion in damages. They have prepared over 1 million meals, completed 7,800 recovery jobs, and facilitated numerous conversions to faith. Efforts are ongoing in multiple states, especially in North Carolina. Financial support from the government and Baptist organizations enhances long-term rebuilding efforts.
Southern Baptists have provided crucial relief to Hurricane Helene survivors since the storm’s landfall on September 26, 2022. Approaching the six-month mark, the focus has now shifted towards rebuilding communities impacted by the disaster, which resulted in over 230 fatalities and approximately $200 billion in damages, marking it as the costliest hurricane in U.S. history.
Josh Benton, Vice President for National Ministry at Send Relief, emphasized the extensive response to the storm: “What set Helene apart was the widespread impact… Southern Baptists cannot thank their state disaster relief leadership and volunteers enough for the way they sacrificed…” In the aftermath, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) has prepared over 1 million meals, completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs, and reported 244 new professions of faith through nearly 40 sites across several states.
As recovery efforts commence, the focus is on rebuilding, notably in western North Carolina, which suffered extensive damage around Asheville. Maria Lee, spouse of Tennessee’s Governor Bill Lee, joined Tennessee Baptists on the Arise and Build initiative that has completed over 110 jobs thus far. N.C. Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Unzicker remarked on the collaborative efforts: “When disaster struck our state last fall, we saw N.C. Baptists and Great Commission Baptists from around the country live out what it means to be ‘on mission together.’”
The disaster relief initially concentrated on immediate needs, such as providing meals and cleanup support. Currently, volunteers are assisting survivors in the home rebuilding process, with around 1,400 teams and over 7,000 volunteers aiding efforts. Richard Weeks, an associational mission strategist, has been leading reconstruction since October 2022, stating, “This is one of the most unique storms I’ve ever been a part of due to the terrain and the force of the overall storm itself.”
The rebuilding process is divided into phases, with an approximate 130 homes completed and an additional 250 under construction. Volunteers are not only aiding in physical recovery but also fostering spiritual revival within communities. Weeks noted, “I’ve heard incredible stories about churches reaching their neighbors and seeing them come to faith…”
While many victims initially faced despair, assistance from Baptists on Mission has rekindled hope and faith for numerous people. Weeks recounted a family in Canton whose members turned back to faith through community support. Even volunteers have found unexpected faith, leading to baptisms during rebuild efforts.
Furthermore, Baptists on Mission has received a $3 million grant from the North Carolina government to facilitate rebuilding efforts, while Send Relief continues to provide financial assistance for prolonged support. “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers,” concluded Unzicker, expressing confidence in sustained assistance as rebuilding progresses.
In conclusion, Southern Baptists have demonstrated profound commitment and adaptability in response to Hurricane Helene, focusing on both immediate relief and long-term rebuilding efforts. The multifaceted approach has not only provided essential support to storm survivors but has also fostered spiritual renewal and community engagement. Through collaborative actions and donations, Southern Baptists continue to affirm their mission to serve and uplift those affected by this devastating event.
Original Source: www.baptistpress.com
