Randy C. Davis
FRANKLIN — Urgency was the theme Thursday when the Arise and Build Task Group met via Zoom to discuss the rebuilding phase of the Hurricane Helene recovery effort across East Tennessee.
“Winter is upon us,” Randy C. Davis, president and executive director of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, told the group of about 20 on the call. “We’ve got to not only rush in to build the houses but also rush in to present the gospel and make sure that we are not just putting roofs over people’s heads but putting the hope of the gospel in their hearts.”
The Arise and Build Task Group (ABTG) was formed shortly after floodwaters from Hurricane Helene receded, ensuring a collaborative response to what has become a humanitarian crisis.
More than 1,200 homes and 11 Tennessee Baptist churches have been destroyed or significantly damaged. The initial mud-out phase is complete, and the ABTG met last week to receive updates on rebuilding efforts.
The ABTG is made up of pastors, directors of missions, laypersons, businesspeople, contractors, Tennessee Baptist Mission Board staff, Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief coordinators, like-minded relief ministries and staff from the Faith-Based Initiatives office of Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.
“We’re making good progress here in Newport,” said Mike Hensley, director of missions for the East Tennessee Association. “We had 192 homes destroyed and 108 that need rebuilding. It’s a God-sized task that awaits us. We covet your prayers and appreciate your help.”
David Hawkins, director of missions for the Nolachucky Association, said teams are working to finish three houses before Christmas. David Green, pastor of First Baptist Church of Greeneville, said a mass effort is underway to rebuild five houses in five days.
“We’ll have a crew of 80 people, along with members from our church, trying to get families back in their homes for Thanksgiving,” Green said.
Concern was expressed about the approaching winter and the lack of adequate shelter for many residents. The group raised questions about Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) housing.
“FEMA does have housing similar to mobile homes that people may be eligible for,” said Garry Maddox, Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief specialist. “However, they have to apply for general assistance before they can apply for temporary housing.”
Information on FEMA relief related to Hurricane Helene’s impact in Tennessee is available at fema.gov/disaster/4832.
The Tennessee Baptist Mission Board’s Carson Springs Conference Center is also available as temporary housing for families in need or for volunteer teams planning to work on rebuilding projects. There are 51 rooms and 10 RV hookups. If interested, contact Carson Springs at 423-623-2764 for more information.
Financial donations for the recovery effort have been strong. Davis reported that more than $2 million has been received, including over $1.25 million from the Alabama State Board of Missions.
“The cash gifts have been phenomenal,” Davis said. “Tennessee Baptists have opened their hearts, giving generously. Our neighbors to the south, my home state, have contributed through their state board. Their executive director, Rick Lance, said they were sending another $50,000. We praise the Lord and are grateful for that. I believe it’s going to take every penny (to rebuild).”
Davis said Tennessee Baptist Convention (TBC) churches have been offered the opportunity to adopt a family needing a rebuild or new construction.
“We’ve asked a church or group of churches to provide 2,000-man hours and $25,000 because that’s what it will take for a new build. I’m excited about that possibility.”
For more information about how individuals or churches can help a family, send or host volunteers, or report damage to a Tennessee Baptist church, scan the QR code below or visit Tennessee Disaster Relief’s website (tndisasterrelief.org). B&R
