Hope Force International Reservists,

A week ago today, the southern coast of Texas was preparing for Category 1 Hurricane Hanna while many were praying for mercy — asking God to intervene and minimize the impact. We are grateful that the damage has been limited.  One week later, we find ourselves in a similar situation as Hurricane Isaias threatens the eastern seaboard of the USA.

What Hope Force International is Doing:

Like other agencies, HFI is readying supplies, equipment and personnel in preparation for possible landfall this weekend. Simultaneously, we again pray for mercy. As you know, Florida continues to struggle with Covid-19 which will only serve to complicate effective response efforts should the need arise. We’ve been in touch with friends and partners in the Bahamas, many of whom are still struggling to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Dorian…and please join us in praying for them. We’re reaching out to friends, partners and contacts in the potential impact areas in case we need to respond.

The next 24 – 48 hours is critical. Disaster Services Director, Joey Stoltzfus — along with other team members — is on point and monitoring the situation. He will be keeping us all apprised of developments while ensuring the readiness of HFI. We are grateful for each one of you and know that together, we will rise in faith to confront what challenges may come our way.

Let’s be in prayer for Hurricane Isaias to shift east — avoiding the coastline —and thus, reducing possible impacts.

Pray for mercy, pray for preparations underway and whether you should respond if called upon to do so. Prepare for possible deployment if needed…and if you can’t go, please give. Stay tuned for updates.

• Specifics on location and timing of deployment

• If deployed, prepare for lots of change and uncertainty – with plans “unfolding” as things develop
• If you can't deploy immediately, you could still have an opportunity to serve in a later phase
• We will keep you updated as we know more

We are asking for all Hope Force Reservists to be on standby alert for a possible deployment. Again, this means check your calendars, and prayerfully assess to see if this is a good time for you to respond. If you are available – or even think you might be – please EMAIL CONNIE with the following:

• Name
• Email
• Cell phone number
• Dates of availability (as best you know)

Also:

• Conduct a self assessment:  would this be a good time for you to deploy (physically, emotionally, job, family, etc.)?
• Pray about your involvement
• Prepare your deployment gear and supplies
• Communicate with family, friends and employer about possible deployment
• If you cannot go at this time, please pray and also consider giving to the response

This could be a great opportunity for those of you who haven't been able to deploy for a while. Your willingness to serve others with compassionate action is greatly appreciated...and we need you!

We’d also appreciate your prayers as we continue to assess the changing situation, seeking God’s clear guidance in the process.

Thank you!