We are all deeply moved by the media images of tornados in Texas and flooding along the Mississippi River.  As events unfolded with the tornados, we reached out to experienced HFI Reservists to alert them to the possibility of a response. Simultaneously, we began the process of determining if the magnitude of this event had overwhelmed local resources -- in the attempt to ascertain if our assistance would be needed.

After gathering information from sources in the area and giving careful consideration, it was decided that while the damage is intense, local and regional resources were able to address the current need.  In fact, the feedback we’ve received is that they "have more local volunteers than they know what to do with."  (Texas has a very strong Southern Baptist & Salvation Army disaster service presence.)

In many respects, we are currently taking the same approach with the flooding along the Mississippi River. We’re in contact with our colleagues in VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters) and have found that like HFI, other response organizations are waiting for floodwaters to recede.  As this happens, the extent of the damage will become clearer and a determination of local resources can be made. We’re also in routine communication with our partners in The Salvation Army about the potential opportunity to serve in support of their local activities.

Hope Force International (HFI) is poised to respond and is in a state of readiness, with supplies and equipment prepared to go at a moment's notice.  A key principle to disaster response is that every disaster is local—and when possible—is addressed by local means.  Should the need rise above that which the local community can address, there are protocols in place that open the way for assistance from various governmental and non-governmental resources.  This was the case in the massive tornado outbreak of 2013 in Moore, Oklahoma—and then again in Arkansas and Mississippi in 2014 and the flooding in South Carolina in 2015.   Hope Force International responded to each of these disaster events and is still in South Carolina.

Our heart and prayers are with the survivors, first responders and all those affected by this tragic disaster.  HFI will remain vigilant -- and should our assistance be needed, we stand ready to serve.  Please join us in asking God to direct our steps as we seek to put our love of Him into compassionate action through serving those affected by disaster.  We are grateful for each one of our wonderful HFI Reservists!