There’s still more to do. And we made a promise.
This is the first in a series of articles as part of the Bishop’s Appeal for Disaster Recovery for ongoing work needed for survivors of the June 2016 West Virginia flooding. Visit wvumc.org/disaster-recovery to learn more about how you can participate in our continuing efforts.
By Melissa Shortridge
Greenbrier District Superintendent
Almost three years have passed, and a ride through the flood-affected areas of White Sulphur Springs, Caldwell, Rupert, Rainelle, and Richwood still show evidence of the damage, destruction, and loss from the 2016 thousand-year flood.
Many have had no choice but to leave the area and live with family or friends. The demographics show an increase in poverty in these areas…it’s hard to land on your feet when you have lost everything you own! But thankfully, that’s not the end of the story.
The United Methodist Churches throughout the West Virginia Conference and across the region, as well as many, many other volunteers, have rallied their efforts to be the hands and feet of Christ. Our goal is to assist those who are still in recovery mode, but our resources are now limited.
Our local churches are doing all they can, but we need your help. I’m proud that the UMC has not forgotten, even after three years! I’m proud the people of the UMC continue to see the needs and respond with compassionate hearts.
My prayer is that we once again rally to continue to provide the help needed to provide the basic needs of home and shelter for those still struggling. Thanks be to God!
But there’s still more to do. And we made a promise.
You can help by giving to the Bishop’s Appeal for Disaster Recovery. Your generous donations will allow us to continue to work in partnership with UMCOR to help families still recovering. Visit wvumc.org/disaster-recovery to give and see stories of what you’ve helped us do so far and what we can still do together.