Columbus, Mississippi: Local Churches Answer the Call for Disaster Relief
Recovery after a storm can be tough, especially for communities hit hard by hurricanes. Columbus, Mississippi, is rallying behind this cause as local churches gear up to send out disaster relief teams. Following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and with Hurricane Milton approaching, the need for support has never been more pressing.
“Lives can change in an instant when a hurricane moves over towns and cities,” said Tommy Gillon, the disaster relief ministry leader at Fairview Baptist Church. He reflects on the church’s commitment: “We’ve been to many disasters, and while we hate that there’s a need, our church is always ready to provide resources and volunteers.”
Preparation and Mobilization
Fairview Baptist Church is preparing to dispatch a team to Alma, Georgia, an area significantly affected by Hurricane Helene. “We take the basic tools we have because sometimes it feels like we start from scratch,” Gillon explained. The church equips its volunteers with portable showers and generators, answering the call for immediate needs in devastated areas.
Working in collaboration with other churches within the Mississippi Baptist Convention, Fairview also offers hot meals and covers damaged roofs with tarps. Their holistic approach to disaster relief aims not just at providing temporary solutions but also fostering a sense of community among those affected.
The Heart of Volunteering
Many volunteers have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to serve. Steve McKay, a veteran volunteer since 2004, shares his experience, “Not only are you helping others, but it kind of helps you too. You feel a sense of purpose as you see the needs of the people and work to fulfill them.” His passion stems from firsthand experience, having traveled to various sites across the country for disaster relief.
The Fairview Baptist disaster relief team has visited affected areas in Missouri, Texas, and North Carolina, constantly honing their skills. “We go off to trainings, like saw chain trainings and cooking courses. We really are a very well-oiled machine when it comes to disaster relief,” McKay added, highlighting the importance of proper preparation and training in these efforts.
Community Connection
The outpouring of support and commitment from the Columbus community exemplifies the spirit of togetherness during tough times. As residents unite to help those in need, the message is clear: In the face of adversity, local churches and their volunteers stand ready to respond.
As the situation unfolds and recovery efforts begin, the resilient spirit of Columbus shines brightly. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, there are always those ready and willing to help others find their way back to the light.
