Southern Baptists have been actively involved in assisting Hurricane Helene survivors post-landfall on September 26. The SBDR reported over one million meals and thousands of recovery jobs. Focus has now shifted to rebuild efforts, especially in western North Carolina. The community’s response has revitalized hope and faith among affected families, while substantial grants and donations facilitate ongoing assistance.
Six months post-Hurricane Helene’s landfall, Southern Baptists remain committed to supporting survivors in their rebuilding efforts. The storm, which struck Florida on September 26, resulted in 248 fatalities and approximately $78.7 billion in damages, positioning it as the seventh-costliest hurricane in U.S. history.
The Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) has been instrumental since the storm’s aftermath, preparing over one million meals and completing more than 7,800 recovery jobs across six states, including Florida and North Carolina. As stated by Josh Benton, Vice President of Send Relief, “What set Helene apart was the widespread impact of the storm.”
In the weeks following landfall, the focus transitioned to reconstruction efforts, particularly in areas heavily impacted like western North Carolina. Tennessee Baptists, with the support of Governor Bill Lee’s wife, Maria Lee, are actively involved in rebuilding projects, successfully completing over 110 jobs under the Arise and Build initiative.
Todd Unzicker, Executive Director-Treasurer for N.C. Baptists, emphasized the community’s collective mission during this crisis, 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.’”
Richard Weeks, an Associational Mission Strategist, has played a pivotal role in leading rebuild efforts since early October. His team focuses on ensuring families return home before winter, beginning with quick repairs before addressing more extensive damages.
Currently, approximately 1,400 disaster response teams, involving over 7,000 volunteers, have worked alongside local churches to restore homes, successfully completing around 130 rebuilds with many others ongoing. Unzicker shared, “I’ve heard incredible stories about churches reaching their neighbors and seeing them come to faith.”
Many families have regained faith and hope due to church outreach amidst their hardships. Weeks recounted how volunteers’ kindness led individuals, who had distanced themselves from church, to return and find community. Notably, one family’s transformation included their participation in baptisms following reconstruction efforts.
Baptists on Mission secured a $3 million grant from the North Carolina government to fund the rebuilding process, while Send Relief continues to provide financial assistance. Donations through ServeNC are being accepted to support volunteers assisting storm survivors through 2025. “God has made His grace and providence evident and answered our prayers,” remarked Unzicker, reaffirming faith in ongoing support for the recovery efforts.
In summary, six months after Hurricane Helene, Southern Baptists have significantly contributed to the recovery and rebuilding of impacted communities. Through extensive volunteer efforts and financial assistance, they have not only addressed immediate needs but have also fostered hope and faith among survivors. As rebuilding progresses, continued support and cooperation reflect the resilience and dedication of the Baptist community in serving those affected by the disaster.
Original Source: www.sendrelief.org
