Southern Baptists Continue Rebuilding Efforts After Hurricane Helene’s Impact

Southern Baptists are actively aiding in rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Helene’s devastation, which claimed 248 lives and caused $78.7 billion in damages. Over one million meals were prepared, and thousands of jobs completed. Volunteer engagement emphasizes restoring hope in affected communities, with financial backing from the North Carolina government and ongoing support from Send Relief to facilitate long-term recovery.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Southern Baptists have remained committed to supporting survivors since the hurricane’s landfall in Florida on September 26. With the six-month marker approaching, efforts now emphasize rebuilding efforts in affected communities. This storm caused 248 fatalities and inflicted approximately $78.7 billion in damages, ranking it as the seventh-costliest hurricane in U.S. history.

Josh Benton, Vice President of National Ministry for Send Relief, underscored the unprecedented impact of Hurricane Helene. “Southern Baptist Disaster Relief had to cover hundreds of miles of territory in the response,” he stated. He further commended the dedication and sacrifices made by state disaster relief leaders and volunteers who worked to meet the needs of those affected and share the Gospel following the disaster.

In the immediate aftermath, the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) organization prepared over one million meals, completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs, and reported 244 professions of faith at nearly 40 SBDR sites across multiple states. The focus has now shifted in Appalachia from recovery to rebuilding, with initiatives such as the Arise and Build program led by Tennessee Baptists alongside Maria Lee, the wife of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, which has successfully completed over 110 jobs.

Western North Carolina felt the storm’s impact especially hard, as noted by Todd Unzicker, Executive Director-Treasurer for N.C. Baptists, who remarked on the collaborative efforts of Baptists responding to needs in their communities. Initially concentrating on providing hot meals and immediate cleanup following flooding, SBDR volunteers have now redirected their efforts to assist survivors in rebuilding their homes.

Richard Weeks, an Associational Mission Strategist for the Eastern Baptist Association, has played a vital role in the rebuild effort since October 5, 2024. He described this storm as particularly unique due to its terrain and the overall force. The rebuilding initiative began by swiftly identifying homes that required quick repairs to allow families to return before winter’s onset.

Currently, approximately 1,400 disaster response teams with over 7,000 volunteers have mobilized to aid Baptists on Mission in restoring homes. Unzicker reported that around 130 homes have been completed, with another 250 rebuilds currently in progress. He shared touching stories of communities coming together, with individuals coming to faith and being baptized through these efforts.

Many residents were unprepared for the extensive damage caused by Helene, leaving some unsure of where to seek assistance. However, as they engaged with church volunteers, some regained hope in the church’s role in the community. Weeks recounted an uplifting story about a family where the wife, initially indifferent, was inspired by the volunteers’ kindness to reconnect with her faith, ultimately attending Crestview Baptist Church, which celebrated numerous baptisms.

Baptists on Mission has secured a $3 million grant from the North Carolina government to support rebuilding efforts. Additionally, Send Relief is providing financial resources to facilitate ongoing assistance. N.C. Baptists continue to accept donations to resource volunteers aiding storm survivors well into 2025. Unzicker concluded, “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers,” expressing confidence that this support will persist as rebuilding efforts continue.

In summary, six months after Hurricane Helene’s devastating landfall, Southern Baptists are actively engaged in rebuilding efforts across six affected states. Their initiatives have encompassed meal preparation, recovery jobs, and shared spiritual support, resulting in numerous stories of hope and renewed faith. With significant support from both government and community volunteers, ongoing rebuilding efforts exemplify the strength of the Baptist community in responding to disaster and serving those in need.

Original Source: www.sendrelief.org