Six months after Hurricane Helene, Southern Baptists have transitioned from relief to rebuilding efforts across six affected states. With more than 1 million meals provided and extensive recovery jobs completed, volunteers are helping homeowners restore their lives. Significant financial support aids ongoing initiatives, while numerous personal stories illustrate the deep impact of faith through community service.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Southern Baptists have been providing ongoing relief to affected communities since the storm struck on September 26. As the six-month anniversary approaches, the focus has shifted towards rebuilding efforts, following the devastating impact of the storm that claimed over 230 lives and caused approximately $200 billion in damages, marking it as the costliest hurricane in U.S. history.
Josh Benton, vice president for national ministry for Send Relief, emphasized the extensive coverage needed for their response, 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.” Volunteers were crucial in meeting needs and spreading the Gospel in the wake of this crisis.
In the weeks post-landfall, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) completed more than 7,800 recovery jobs and prepared over 1 million meals across several states including Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Notably, the recovery phase in Appalachia has transitioned to rebuilding. The Arise and Build initiative, supported by Tennessee Baptists and led by Maria Lee, wife of Governor Bill Lee, has already completed over 110 jobs.
Western North Carolina, particularly around Asheville, experienced severe destruction. Todd Unzicker, executive director-treasurer for N.C. Baptists, remarked on the response, stating, “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.’” This collaboration demonstrates the commitment of local churches to immediate relief efforts.
The SBDR’s initial phase prioritized urgent needs like providing hot meals and managing cleanup efforts. Volunteers have since dedicated their efforts to assisting homeowners in rebuilding. Richard Weeks, an associational mission strategist, noted the unique challenges posed by Hurricane Helene, which demanded a personalized approach to disaster relief.
The rebuilding initiative commenced with the identification of homes eligible for quick repairs, aiming to have residents return before winter. Currently, about 1,400 disaster response teams comprising over 7,000 volunteers are working tirelessly, having completed approximately 130 homes while additional rebuilds are in progress.
Weeks shared inspiring stories of faith transformations among those served, noting, “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.” Many community members rediscovered hope through the church’s assistance, leading them back to local congregations.
A striking example from Canton highlighted a woman, initially disconnected from the church due to personal struggles, who began attending Crestview Baptist Church after experiencing the kindness of volunteers. Moreover, some volunteers who joined the efforts found newfound faith, leading one to baptism in a truck bed.
For the rebuild efforts, Baptists on Mission received a $3 million grant from North Carolina, with additional support from Send Relief. Donations are being collected through ServeNC to sustain volunteer work for storm survivors into 2025. Unzicker concluded, “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers, and I trust that He will continue to do so as long-term rebuild work goes on.”
In conclusion, Southern Baptists have effectively rallied their resources and efforts six months post-Hurricane Helene to support recovery and rebuilding. Their work has not only provided practical aid to affected communities but has also fostered spiritual renewal and hope among individuals and families. The collaboration across state lines and the dedication of volunteers highlight the resilience and compassionate mission of the Southern Baptist disaster relief initiatives.
Original Source: www.baptistpress.com
