Southern Baptists Persist in Rebuilding Efforts Following Hurricane Helene
Southern Baptists have focused on rebuilding communities six months after Hurricane Helene, which caused severe damage and loss of life. Over 1 million meals and thousands of recovery jobs have been completed. Significant volunteer efforts are underway, with many individuals experiencing revitalization of faith through church assistance. Continued support from financial grants and donations facilitates ongoing relief and rebuilding efforts.
Since Hurricane Helene struck on September 26, 2024, Southern Baptists have worked diligently to assist the affected communities. As they reach the six-month mark post-disaster, efforts are now concentrated on rebuilding rather than immediate relief. Helene resulted in over 230 fatalities and approximately $200 billion in damages, marking it as the most expensive hurricane in U.S. history.
Josh Benton, vice president of Send Relief, emphasized the extensive impact of the hurricane, stating, “What set Helene apart was the widespread impact of the storm. Southern Baptist Disaster Relief had to cover hundreds of miles of territory in the response.” The organization has provided over 1 million meals and completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs across several states, fostering 244 professions of faith amid their operations.
In the wake of Helene, Maria Lee, wife of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, collaborated with Tennessee Baptists on the Arise and Build initiative, completing over 110 jobs. Western North Carolina, particularly Asheville, incurred the most significant damage among the affected states. Todd Unzicker, N.C. Baptists executive director-treasurer, remarked on the united efforts of Baptists, indicating, “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 initial phase of SBDR efforts prioritized urgent needs such as providing meals and clearing debris. As of 2025, they are now focusing on helping residents rebuild their homes. Richard Weeks, an associational mission strategist, noted his engagement with the long-term recovery process and commented on the storm’s unique challenges.
The rebuilding phase is progressing, with approximately 1,400 response teams and over 7,000 volunteers aiding the cause. Currently, 130 homes have been completed, with 250 rebuilds in progress. Unzicker highlighted stories of community faith revitalization, stating, “I’ve heard incredible stories about churches reaching their neighbors and seeing them come to faith and get baptized—through the impact of Helene response.”
Amidst the hardships, community members served by SDBR often rediscovered their faith and trust in the church. Weeks relayed instances where individuals reignited their connection with local churches due to the assistance they received. He recounted one family’s story, where volunteers’ kindness led a member to begin attending Crestview Baptist Church, which celebrated 20 baptisms recently.
Baptists on Mission has secured a $3 million grant from the North Carolina government for rebuilding efforts, supplemented by financial resources from Send Relief. N.C. Baptists are also gathering donations through ServeNC to support continued volunteer work throughout 2025. Unzicker expressed confidence in the collective efforts, asserting, “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers.”
In summary, Southern Baptists have effectively transitioned from immediate relief efforts to long-term rebuilding following Hurricane Helene. They have mobilized substantial volunteer support, which has led to numerous homes rebuilt and community members revitalized in their faith. The ongoing commitment of churches and community partnerships underscores a resilient response to one of the most significant natural disasters in recent history. Continued efforts, backed by government grants and donations, will sustain this vital work well into the future.
Original Source: www.brnow.org
