Hurricane Sally made landfall as a slow-moving Cat 2 hurricane, releasing massive amounts of rain.  Some areas along the gulf coast of Florida / Alabama received in excess of 24 inches of rain; in fact, Bellview, FL reported 30 inches.

If you’ve been reading recent communications from HFI, you know that we’ve been actively engaged in Hurricane Laura relief in Lake Charles, LA from day one. However, in response to Hurricane Sally, HFI has immediately reached out to multiple areas in Alabama, Georgia and Florida to assess the damage and need. This is being done without jeopardizing HFI’s work with the catastrophic, unmet need of survivors in Louisiana. The need is great — and is still quite overwhelming in Louisiana.

Should there be clear and strong indicators that leads HFI to initiate a response, we will need our seasoned Reservists to help coordinate teams and resources. Please join us in praying for wisdom and faith to go in the right direction— whatever that may be.

HOPE FORCE INTERNATIONAL RESERVISTS — YOU ARE NEEDED!

Whether our response is in the aftermath of Hurricane Sally or Hurricane Laura, you are needed!  If you’ve not been in a position to volunteer in the past, perhaps now is your time.  The work is hard, the reward is great and the terrible privilege of demonstrating the good news of God’s love to people in need is life-changing. YOU CAN DO THIS!  The comradery among team members and the interaction with survivors creates an amazing experience and impact of eternal significance.

COME JOIN THE TEAM! Give a few days… or even 10 days to two-weeks.  Be a “difference-maker” — willing to follow the example of Jesus as together, we offer help and inspire hope in very tangible, practical ways.

What we know:

• At this time, we are gathering intel on the status of the damage.

What We Don't Know:

• Specifics on location and timing of deployment -- or even if we are going to deplo into Hurricane Sally's aftermath.

What You Need To Know:

• If deployed, we can expect initial plans and set-up to take time as things develop.
• If you can’t deploy immediately, you could still have opportunity to serve in a later phase.
• HFI will keep our social media platforms active and updated.

We are asking for all Hope Force Reservists to be on standby alert for a possible deployment to the Gulf Coast.  Please check your calendars, and prayerfully assess logistics for you to determine if this is a good time for you to respond.  If you are available, or even think you may be, please EMAIL CONNIE with the following:

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

Also:

• Conduct a self-assessment regarding your ability to deploy (physically, emotionally, family, etc.)
• Prayerfully seek God regarding your involvement
• Prepare your deployment gear and supplies
• Communication with family, friends and employers about possible deployment
• If you cannot go at this time, please prayerfully consider giving financially to the response efforts.

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!