Into the Hurricane

Hurricane Florence, although downgraded from the projected category five, hit North Carolina coast and slowly ground it’s way inland, dumping 8 trillion gallons of rain. Those in its path had to decide: to evacuate or stay. Those sheltering in place were battered by wind and rain, those who evacuated, although in a place of safety, were left to wonder about the damage to their homes and livelihoods. How soon would they be able to return?

As the ferocity of the hurricane became known, Ben joined a team heading into the storm stocked with a trailer full of generators, chain saws, and the like, plus a skid-steer ready to help bring relief to church members and their neighbors in Wilmington and New Bern, NC. The team cut down trees, pulled out drywall, and checked on the status and safety of many of the members in these areas, crossing roads with standing water several feet high.

Some photos from the journey:

Ethan Dorr, Ben Greer, & Ben Kitchen

Damage from flooding and trees, plus debris

Ben Dorr & Ben Kitchen clearing the roadway

From left to right: Ethan Dorr, Aaron Dorr, Mrs. Jones, Mr. Jones (son), Alex, Ben Kitchen, Ben Dorr, Chris Dorr

Many thanks to those who prayed for Ben while he was away, and many thanks to the men who served alongside him. For those who would like to help, get connected in the following ways:

UPDATE: In November, Ben and Jake went back to North Carolina to aid in the reBUILDING efforts. there are many families still slogging through long process of recovery - please continue your prayers for this area.

GIVE: Donate through the OPC Disaster Response Team here.

PRAY: To find out more about the OPC Disaster Response, sign up to get reports here: https://www.opcstm.org/storm-reports/ or on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/OPCDisasterResponse/

SERVE: Interested in using your gifts to serve God’s people? The Disaster Response is regrouping to organize the long term work that will be involved. Contact Tim Hopper if you have any questions or desire to volunteer in the next weeks or months.

Tim Hopper
tim.hopper@shilohopc.org
Deacon, Shiloh Presbyterian Church
Chairman, PSE Diaconal Committee