September 24, 2018
Driving into Lumberton, NC was not without it’s challenges. A trip that should have been two hours took seven due to flooded and closed roads. In fact, had it not been for a letter of invitation from Lumberton's city leadership, our team would not have been granted access. As they made their way into the city and seeing the floodwater, team members felt a rush of emotion. Many had been here in 2016 to witness the devastation brought about by Hurricane Matthew.
However, this was worse – much worse. Due to their early arrival, water had not yet begun to recede. In fact, it has only been within the last 48 hours that levels have noticeably dropped. This has not prevented the team from engaging in immediate intervention on behalf of those whose homes are accessible. In this process, they have not only made new relationships but renewed relationships with families, individuals, church and civic leaders that we served and collaborated with in the past. Knowing that some in the community were just recovered from damage done in 2016, only to be ravaged once again, weighs heaving on the hearts and minds of our team.
The city leaders have not been spared -- including Lumberton's City Manager’s home which has flooded. The Deputy City Manager stated "Lessons learned from 2016: we can’t wait on FEMA & insurance -- we’ve got to get to work on our houses now!” As the floodwaters recede and homes become more accessible, the extent of damage becomes overwhelming. Please continue to pray for survivors and responders as they approach such a daunting task...as well as for strength, provision and grace. It is also our desire that people will be inspired to serve and give -- assisting in what will surely be a long recovery.
Hope Force International currently has teams on location, and is in the process of recruiting additional volunteers to join us in this monumental effort. The need is great, and the desire to demonstrate God’s compassionate concern compels us.
Would you please consider being an active participant of mercy and compassion for the people of Lumberton, North Carolina who need a helping, comforting hand during these trying days ahead?
