Southern Baptists have been actively aiding recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene survivors since its landfall in September 2024. As rebuilding initiatives ramp up, over one million meals and numerous recovery jobs have been facilitated. Significant projects include the Arise and Build initiative in Tennessee and the rebuilding of homes in western North Carolina. A focus on community restoration and faith renewal is evident as volunteers and residents collaborate on reconstruction efforts.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated various states in late September 2024, Southern Baptists have been diligently supporting relief efforts for affected communities. After six months, their focus has shifted from immediate relief to long-term rebuilding initiatives. Helene resulted in losses of 248 lives and approximately $78.7 billion in damages, marking it as one of the costliest hurricanes in U.S. history.
Josh Benton, vice president of Send Relief, noted the extensive impact of the storm, requiring Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) to cover considerable distances in their response efforts. Benton emphasized the dedication of state disaster relief leadership and volunteers, stating, “Their ability to extend themselves that far signals the strength and capacity of the SBDR network.”
In the weeks following the hurricane, SBDR provided over one million meals and facilitated more than 7,800 recovery jobs. Additionally, they reported 244 conversions of faith across nearly 40 service sites in affected states including Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Maria Lee, wife of Tennessee’s governor, collaborated with local Baptists on the Arise and Build initiative, which has thus far completed over 110 rebuilding projects. While all six states experienced significant damage, western North Carolina, particularly around Asheville, faced some of the worst repercussions.
Todd Unzicker, Executive Director-Treasurer for N.C. Baptists, expressed pride in the collective action taken by churches and the strong response of their community, affirming their mission-driven collaboration. Initially focusing on immediate relief, SBDR volunteers have transitioned to assisting homeowners in rebuilding their properties in preparation for winter.
Richard Weeks, an associational mission strategist, has been actively involved since October 2024, engaged in leading the rebuilding efforts for North Carolina’s Baptists on Mission. Weeks highlighted the unique challenges presented by the terrain and storm intensity, emphasizing their phased approach to rebuilding that accommodates varying levels of home damage.
More than 1,400 disaster response teams comprising over 7,000 volunteers have participated, aiding homes’ reconstructions, with around 130 homes completed and 250 currently underway. “I have heard incredible stories about churches reaching their neighbors and seeing them come to faith and get baptized – through the impact of Helene response,” noted Unzicker.
The extensive hurricane damage caught many residents off guard, with numerous individuals unsure of where to seek help. As SBDR volunteers intervened, many regained trust in their local churches. Weeks recounted instances of individuals expressing renewed faith, stating, “It has brought back a hope and a faith that the church is really at the forefront of trying to meet the needs of people.”
Through genuine volunteer efforts, there have been testimonies of transformed lives among rebuilders and those they are helping. A grant of $3 million was awarded to Baptists on Mission by the North Carolina government to bolster the rebuilding process, while additional resources are being contributed by Send Relief.
Ultimately, as long-term recovery efforts are set to continue into 2025, Unzicker observed the hand of providence in the collective efforts, stating, “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers.”
In conclusion, Southern Baptists’ ongoing efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene exemplify their commitment to community support and recovery. From immediate disaster relief to long-term rebuilding, the actions taken by volunteers and local churches demonstrate resilience and faith. As the rebuild progresses, the impact on the lives of affected individuals cements the significance of collaboration and compassion within communities, highlighting a renewed hope in the church’s role during crises.
Original Source: www.sendrelief.org
