Hurricane Helene: Your Help is Needed

Dear Friend, 

The devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton has left communities grappling not only with physical destruction but also with deep emotional challenges. The combined impact of these storms has made many residents more vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.

As communities face the heartbreak of lost homes, possessions, and uncertainty, we remain committed to offering both physical assistance and hope—helping survivors rebuild not just their homes, but their lives.

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MILTON RESPONSE UPDATES:

Florida residents returned to find flooded streets and homes destroyed after Hurricane Milton, a heartbreaking reality for many who had already faced the devastation of previous storms. The back-to-back disasters have raised concerns about survivors' mental health, and with experts predicting more frequent extreme weather events, the need for both immediate and long-term support has never been more critical.

In response to Hurricane Milton, our teams arrived in Bradenton, Florida, on Thursday, October 17th and set-up a base at Gulf Coast Church. The community has been severely impacted by downed trees and significant debris, creating unsafe conditions for many. Over the next four weeks, our volunteers and partners will be working on chainsaw work, debris removal, heavy equipment operations, and roof tarping to help restore a sense of safety and stability for the residents. Our goal is to bring hope and relief to families as they begin the long journey towards recovery.

HELENE RESPONSE UPDATES:

Our efforts for Hurricane Helene continue in Valdosta, Georgia, with a base at Camp Tygart, serving Lowndes County, GA, and Madison County, FL. We’ve also expanded operations to McDuffie County, near Augusta, and set up a new base in Mountain City, Tennessee, to support recovery in Johnson County.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has joined us on the ground, bringing hope and helping communities rebuild. If you haven't already, please consider donating or volunteering with our teams. Your support is critical in helping people recover and rebuild after these unprecedented storms.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by dedicated volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. 
To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has donated or joined us on the ground. However, the need remains great, and we still need your support. Your donations can provide the critical supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will fund free services like Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw Work, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment operations, especially for families who can't recover on their own. To donate, please click the button below.

Thank you for your continued support as we work hand in hand with local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide vital assistance to those affected. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Disaster Relief Updates

Dear Friend, 

Inspiritus Disaster Relief teams are working tirelessly to support Hurricane Helene survivors in rebuilding their lives. We’re on the ground in Valdosta, Georgia, providing essential services like Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Muck & Gut, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment support—all at no cost to homeowners. Our base camp is located at Camp Tygart in Valdosta to ensure we can respond swiftly and effectively to the community’s urgent needs.

On October 9th, we expanded our efforts by establishing a second volunteer base in McDuffie County, near Augusta, Georgia. Communities throughout this area have experienced severe damage, requiring extensive chainsaw work. We understand how overwhelming the experience and aftermath of a storm can be for those impacted, and we are working hard to bring help and hope to as many people as possible.

With generous support from donors like you and Lutheran Disaster Response, we are expanding further. On October 11th, we will open a third volunteer base in Mountain City, Tennessee, near the North Carolina and Virginia borders. Starting October 12th, our teams will provide essential chainsaw services, muck & gut work, road repairs, and culvert replacements. We are deeply grateful to First United Methodist Church in Mountain City for graciously hosting our volunteers, enabling us to reach even more families in Eastern Tennessee as they begin their journey toward recovery.

As we continue to monitor the impact of Hurricane Milton, we will keep you informed of our response efforts for that storm as well.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

If you’ve already donated or volunteered, thank you. Your support is making a tangible difference for families starting to rebuild. If you haven’t yet joined us, it’s not too late! Every contribution—whether through a donation or by volunteering—helps make a life-changing impact for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Please consider helping today by clicking the buttons below.

RESPONSE SPOTLIGHT

Lastly, we want to shine a spotlight on one of our dedicated Disaster Relief team members, Ryon Dimitrov. Ryon has gone above and beyond in our response to Hurricane Helene, leading the Valdosta team and waking up every morning at 2 AM to keep operations running smoothly—from fueling generators to managing base logistics. He’s also been operating a skid steer to bring in donated trailers, ensuring we have the supplies we need to continue our work. We are incredibly grateful for Ryon’s dedication!

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a lasting difference for survivors on their road to recovery.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene: Your Help is Needed

Dear Friend,

We want to extend our sincere thanks to those who have already donated to support our Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Your generosity is making a tangible difference in the lives of survivors as they begin their long journey of recovery. We’re also incredibly grateful to those who have stepped up to join our teams on the ground, bringing hope and helping communities rebuild.

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is immense, and local communities need all the support they can get. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to consider donating to our relief efforts or volunteering with our disaster recovery teams. Your compassion and action are vital in helping people recover and rebuild after this unprecedented storm.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by dedicated volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Helene & Milton: We need Your Involvement

Dear Friend,

In recent weeks, the southeastern United States has faced unimaginable challenges in the wake of Hurricane Helene and now the looming threat of Hurricane Milton. Inspiritus is unwavering in our commitment to empowering survivors as they begin the long road to recovery. With simultaneous deployments across multiple cities, we are in urgent need of your help to ensure the success of our disaster response efforts.

As Hurricane Milton bears down on Fort Myers, FL — where we continue long-term recovery operations for survivors of Hurricane Ian — our Disaster Relief teams are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to respond. Due to the severity of the storm, which has now strengthened to a Category 5, our teams have safely evacuated our bases in Valdosta, GA, and Fort Myers. They have temporarily relocated to Columbus, GA, where they will remain until conditions are safe to resume operations.

In addition to our preparations for Hurricane Milton, we are still responding to Hurricane Helene. We will be opening a new base of operations in Augusta, GA, on Friday, October 11, with work scheduled to begin on Saturday, October 12. We are in desperate need of volunteers, especially Team Leaders, to join us in this critical work. If Hurricane Milton causes significant damage to the Fort Myers area, our volunteer teams will be mobilized for local cleanup efforts as soon as it is safe.

Our teams are awaiting confirmation to establish a base in East Tennessee, near the North Carolina and Virginia state lines, to maximize our impact and assist more families and individuals affected by Hurricane Helene in Mountain City and surrounding areas. If activated, we will urgently need volunteers to support these efforts. We expect to have more details by the end of the week and will keep you informed as needs evolve.

This vital work is only possible thanks to the support of our dedicated disaster relief partners:

• The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA

• The Florida-Georgia District of the LCMS

• The Florida Bahamas Synod of the ELCA

• The North Georgia Conference of the UMC

• The South Georgia Conference of the UMC

• The Home Depot Foundation

• AirLink

• Rothrock Foundation

• The StarFish House

• Information Technology Disaster Resource Center

• St. Marks Church - Columbus, GA

• Church of the Nazarene - Barnesville, GA

• Camp Tygart 

• White Oak Methodist Camp

• Siren’s Project

• FootPrint Project

• Volunteers from many churches & communities

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by compassionate volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Mold Sanitation and Heavy Equipment services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Helene: Survivors Need Your Help

Dear Friend,

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has left countless families and communities across the southeastern United States struggling to recover. Right now, Inspiritus Disaster Relief Teams are on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL providing free assistance to help storm survivors rebuild their homes and lives. We are preparing to open a second response site that will be located in Augusta, GA and will have more information soon. Volunteers are needed.

Our teams are providing essential services, including Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Mold Sanitation, Chainsaw, and Heavy Equipment services wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those most vulnerable, including families with children, seniors, veterans, and low-income households. These critical services are bringing much needed hope to families impacted by the storm, but we need your help to continue this life-changing work.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by compassionate volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene: We Need Your Help

Dear Friends,

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation, many of you have reached out, asking how you can help those affected. 

Inspiritus disaster relief teams are on the ground in Valdosta, Georgia, and Madison, Florida, working tirelessly to support survivors and guide them on the road to recovery. With your continued support, we hope to open an additional volunteer camp in the Savannah, Georgia region and will keep you updated as things develop. However, the scale of the destruction is immense, and we need your help to continue providing life-changing support.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Helene Response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL. All skill levels are welcome and no prior training is needed to make an impact. If you want to help, but are unable to travel, we are also looking for volunteers to answer Crisis Clean Up calls, which can be done from home. 

Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Helene Teams Deployed: Your Help is Needed

Dear Friends,

As Hurricane Helene continues to devastate communities across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, we wanted to provide an important update on our ongoing relief efforts. Inspiritus teams were prepositioned in coastal Georgia early last week, anticipating the widespread destruction along the southern coast of Georgia and northern Florida. To best support the impacted areas, we established a base camp at Camp Tygart in Valdosta, GA on Saturday to support both the south Georgia and north Florida regions.

Since then, our teams have been actively providing critical relief in and around Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL, including chainsaw operations and heavy equipment support for debris removal. Despite having no power or water at the base camp, our teams are pushing forward to meet the urgent needs of these communities.

“We’ve never seen anything like this” shares Sherry Buresh, Inspiritus Disaster Relief Director.

Hurricane Helene has caused devastation across multiple states since making landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida’s Big Bend region on Sept. 26. Some areas have seen over 30 inches of rainfall, with storm surges reaching up to 10 feet. More than two million people remain without power across Florida, Georgia, South Carolinas, and North Carolina. Response efforts are ongoing, but many areas, especially communities throughout Tennessee and the Carolinas, remain cut off due to flooding and blocked roads. Tragically, over 116 lives have been lost, with North Carolina reporting the highest number of fatalities and over 1,000 people still missing. 

We are actively monitoring calls with the Florida VOAD, Georgia VOAD, and Tennessee VOAD, as well as Emergency Operations Centers. Given the widespread destruction, and if we secure much needed support, we are hopeful to set up two more bases in other impacted areas, allowing us to expand our reach and operations.

With so many communities still struggling and not receiving the help they need, WE NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE. Your support, whether through volunteering or financial contributions, is critical to ensuring we can continue delivering help to those hardest hit by this storm. Inspiritus staff, clients, supporters and neighbors in our local communities have unfortunately been impacted by this storm and need your help.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Helene Response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.
 

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Debby Response Update

Dear Friends,

It has been seven weeks since Hurricane Debby made landfall, leaving a trail of devastation across Georgia, particularly in Lowndes and Chatham counties. In Chatham County, around Savannah, the storm triggered severe flooding, prompting evacuations and water rescues by local emergency responders. Meanwhile, in Lowndes County, areas near Valdosta faced powerful winds and heavy rainfall, leading to tornado warnings and widespread power outages. The State of Georgia deployed National Guard troops to assist in the emergency response, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.

On August 14, 2024, Inspiritus Disaster Response teams arrived in Lowndes and Chatham counties to support survivors on their road to recovery. Our teams provided free Muck & Gut, Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping, and Heavy Equipment services wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those most vulnerable, including families with children, seniors, veterans, and low-income households.

During our six-week deployment, with the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and generous donors, we empowered 722 survivors on their journey from surviving to thriving.

IN THE NEWS: HURRICANE DEBBY COVERAGE

PLEASE CLICK ON ABOVE IMAGE TO PLAY NEWS CLIP

Linked below are additional news features highlighting the incredible work led by our staff, volunteer leaders, and Team Depot employees from local stores in response to Hurricane Debby:

• Hurricane Debby Response: Inspiritus Disaster Relief (WJCL)

• Local Homes Receive Repairs from The Home Depot Foundation and Inspiritus Following Hurricane Debby (The Savannah Tribune)

WHAT WE DID:

• Capacity Building: Inspiritus staff coordinated with local emergency and city/county officials to assist with local capacity building efforts. While staff actively supported operations in and around Lowndes and Chatham counties, they also assisted leaders in other local towns and counties to help them assess and manage the people and resources they needed. 

• Volunteer Housing: Inspiritus established a volunteer housing base at Garden City United Methodist Church in Savannah and the Georgia Bible Camp in Hahira, with the capacity to accommodate overnight volunteers on a daily basis. 

• Home Assessments, Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping and Heavy Equipment Services: Volunteers conducted Home Assessments and provided free Muck & Gut, Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping, and Heavy Equipment Services for local residents’ homes where it was safe to enter.

• Support & Care: Volunteers accompanied survivors as they navigated one of the most difficult tragedies and challenges of their lives. In this accompaniment, we walk alongside each individual we come in contact with, helping them to tap into the resilience within themselves. Prayer and spiritual encouragement is often greatly appreciated by many survivors and Inspiritus volunteers often provide this comforting and empowering form of care, when it is welcomed. Hope and hugs are often powerfully strengthening for survivors during their darkest hours.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Debby: Inspiritus Teams Deployed

Dear Friends,

As you may know, Hurricane Debby has caused significant damage throughout the state of Georgia, particularly in Lowndes and Chatham counties. In Savannah, the storm brought about unprecedented flooding, with the city receiving nearly 10 inches of rain—more than twice the typical rainfall for the entire month of August. The flooding severely impacted neighborhoods, submerged roads, and led to widespread power outages. In Lowndes County, the situation was similarly dire, with heavy rains causing rivers and creeks to overflow, leading to road closures and widespread property damage. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has extended the State of Emergency, deploying the National Guard and other state resources to assist with road repairs, debris removal, and emergency services. Sadly, Hurricane Debby has resulted in the death of at least 14 people across several states, including Georgia. 

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Project Tasks & Activities:

Inspiritus Disaster Response Teams have been deployed to Lowndes and Chatham Counties and will arrive on Wednesday, August 14. We will be providing a range of critical services, including debris removal, muck and gut, mold sanitation, chainsaw assistance, and small tarp jobs. Additionally, we have heavy equipment teams on standby, prepared to deploy as needed. These services will be provided wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those who are the most vulnerable, families with children, seniors, veterans, and especially low-income households.

To support our volunteers and maximize our impact, we have secured housing at Garden City United Methodist Church in Savannah, which is centrally located to allow us to reach impacted homeowners in Bulloch, Chatham, and Effingham counties efficiently. Additionally, we have secured housing accommodations at the Georgia Bible Camp in Hahira, GA, situated in Lowndes County, to support our efforts in assisting the local community. Inspiritus is also partnering with International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE), and other organizations to ensure homeowners get the comprehensive support they need during this time. As of now, our teams will remain on the ground for the next 30 days.

Projected Outcomes:

• Providing Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation, services to communities as needed/available

• Providing Free Home Needs Assessments

• Support Individuals Impacted by the Disaster

Community Benefit:

Inspiritus is working to build local disaster response capacities, while also providing direct services to survivors.

• Capacity Building: Inspiritus is partnering with local emergency and city/county officials to build local disaster response capacity, as needed.

• Direct Services: Inspiritus staff and volunteers are providing Home Needs Assessments, Debris Removal, and Chainsaw services, along with emotional care to bring safety and peace of mind to homeowners requesting assistance. 

• Support & Care: Volunteers are accompanying survivors as they navigate one of the most difficult tragedies and challenges of their lives. In this accompaniment, we walk alongside each individual we come in contact with, helping them to tap into the resilience within themselves. Prayer and spiritual encouragement is often greatly appreciated by many survivors and Inspiritus volunteers often provide this comforting and empowering form of care, when it is welcomed. Hope and hugs are often powerfully strengthening for survivors during their darkest hours.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Debby Response response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.
 

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Lowndes and Chatham Counties. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

DONATE:

Donate to Inspiritus. The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, and Chainsaw services to help families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower storm survivors on their road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Matagorda County. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Week Five: Updates from our Sally Response

Hurricane Sally Response Update

HURRICANE SALLY

We've had so many wonderful volunteers show up in the past week to help hurricane survivors in Alabama. What started out as a two week response in Lake Charles, Louisiana, turned into a two month response now based in Orange Beach, Alabama. It's been an unprecedented hurricane season in the Gulf Coast. Volunteers have come in from all over to help...a few volunteers even drove all the way from Michigan, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina! Not enough can be said for these volunteers-they are true servant hearts that have helped those in need.

In South Alabama, we have completed 346 total volunteer days, or 1591.75 volunteer hours!

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to support communities most in need of our assistance. Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. The need is still great here in Alabama, as there are not many other organizations here helping out on the ground.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Gratefully,

Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 34: Sally Response Going Strong

Day 34 on the Gulf Coast: Sally Response Going Strong

HURRICANE SALLY

We've had so many wonderful volunteers show up in the past week to help hurricane survivors in Alabama. We'd like to thank each and every one of you who are volunteering or donating to support this ministry. You are each heroes. Thank you for being God's hands.

In South Alabama, we have completed:

• 61 job requests

- 41 tree jobs

- 8 debris removals

- 6 muck & gut

- 6 roof tarping jobs

• 40 homes completed

• 12 homes are now ready for work

• 6 homes are underway now

"Helping hands are needed desperately in order to lift those survivors up and help them begin what will be a long road to recovery and some type of normalcy again. I know everyone is dealing with COVID, the economy, the election and multiple other problems but so are those survivors... on top of all they’ve worked their lives for being destroyed repeatedly."

- Sherry Buresh, Director of Disaster Relief Programs

This is Sherry's 70th response - a huge milestone in the disaster relief world. We're so grateful to have Sherry leading our staff and volunteer teams in this response.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to support communities most in need of our assistance. Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

If you can't join us in person, you can still be one of our "Home Heroes" by fundraising for us-or donating. It's so quick & easy: start fundraising now and share your campaign within minutes to your family and friends.

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Gratefully,

Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 29: A Testimonial from Alabama

Day 29: A Testimonial from South Alabama

“We didn’t have to worry about anything. Inspiritus came in and they were helpful, quiet, they took care of the roof, they took care of the inside, they took care of everything. Just like it was family coming in and helping family. It was just tremendous."

- Joyce Tolbert, Hurricane Sally Survivor

HURRICANE SALLY

Our disaster relief staff and volunteers are working under intense conditions. Now they're working under the threat of yet another hurricane hitting the Gulf Coast today.

Hurricane Delta is forecast to strike the Gulf Coast "literally less than 25 miles" from where Hurricane Laura made landfall six weeks ago (CNN). Delta is a Category 3 storm with sustained winds up to 115 mph.

We are so grateful for our tireless volunteers. We still have a huge need for volunteers in Alabama. Please join us!

Our sincerest thanks and gratitude go out to The City of Orange Beach for fuel, The Island Church for housing and staging, and The Rothrock Foundation for meals.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to support communities most in need of our assistance. Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

Not only are we in the midst of COVID-19 and our Hurricane Sally response, now Hurricane Delta will be hitting the Gulf Coast today. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Not only are we in the midst of COVID-19 and our Hurricane Sally response, now Tropical Storm Delta could hit the Gulf Coast as a hurricane this week. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 26: Updates from the Gulf Coast

Day 26: Fresh Volunteers Needed Urgently

My position with Inspiritus doesn’t put me in front of survivors very often. I’m more behind the scenes working than anything. I love it when I’m able to go out into the field and speak with survivors. Yesterday I was able to do just that. I was able to visit them, hear their stories and offer them assistance. So many are still in need of help to take those first steps of recovery. Often times, survivors are overwhelmed and are unable to move forward with the weight of destruction on their shoulders. I love it when we are able to bring hope, to take that burden over for them for a little while and help take those first steps."

-Sabrina More (pictured above) with a homeowner in Alabama

HURRICANE SALLY

Our volunteers are making lasting impressions on the homeowners they're serving, and vice versa. Many homeowners' homes have been severely damaged or destroyed. They are so appreciative of our volunteers, even offering home cooked meals in expression of their gratitude. The relationships we form while volunteering makes the work we do that much more rewarding.

We still have a huge need for volunteers in Alabama. Volunteers who've been with us between Hurricane Laura and Sally will begin going home today. We need new volunteers to work through October 22nd ASAP. Please join us!

In Alabama so far, our disaster response volunteer teams have completed:

• 48 job requests

- 32 tree jobs

- 6 debris removals

- 5 muck & gut

- 5 roof tarping jobs

• 66 home assessments

• 17 homes are now ready for work

• 7 homes are underway now

Our sincerest thanks and gratitude go out to The City of Orange Beach for fuel, The Island Church for housing and staging, and The Rothrock Foundation for meals.

The damages from this latest hurricane will be felt for months and years to come, but with your help and new volunteers, we can get more hurricane survivors back on the path from surviving to thriving.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to support communities most in need of our assistance. Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well. The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19 and Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

If you can't join us in person, you can still be one of our "Home Heroes" by fundraising for us. It's so quick & easy, start fundraising now and share your campaign within minutes to your family and friends. If you'd like help setting up your campaign, please email Sarah.Burke@weinspirit.org for a consultation.

It costs approximately $50 per day to make sure our volunteer housing and vehicles are fogged and sanitized daily, and our volunteers have the PPE equipment they need to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Could you please sponsor our volunteers for a day, to help keep them safe?

Not only are we in the midst of COVID-19 and our Hurricane Sally response, now Tropical Storm Delta could hit the Gulf Coast as a hurricane this week. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 22: Updates from the Gulf Coast

WE NEED NEW VOLUNTEERS ON THE GROUND IN ALABAMA

Our volunteers on the ground in Alabama

HURRICANE SALLY

"Over two days’ time, and in 85+ degree temperatures, a volunteer Lutheran disaster relief organization named Inspiritus descended on my parent’s property like the exact opposite of a biblical plague and voluntarily (FREE OF CHARGE) completed what might’ve been over $25K worth of tree cutting and removal. This is an amazing example of how we all want humans to be. I cannot thank these people and this organization enough for doing for us what we were unable to do for ourselves."

- Aaron Cockson

We have a huge need for volunteers in Alabama. Home damages extend across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Daphne, Dauphin Island, and Baldwin County. Volunteers who've served 3-4 weeks between Hurricane Laura and Sally will begin going home next Tuesday, so we need new volunteers to work through October 22nd ASAP. Please join us!

Want to see what volunteering on a disaster response mission is like?
Click on the following link to watch: A day In the life of a volunteer

In Alabama so far, our disaster response volunteer teams have completed:

• 750 volunteer hours

• 133 volunteer days

• 55 home assessments

• 19 homes are now ready for work

• 10 homes are underway now

• 33 job requests have been completed

"Inspiritus volunteers are doing an incredible job. They've gone from working in Louisiana to Alabama. After weeks of working, they're tired. We need a new wave of volunteers to join them."

-John Boettner
Southeastern Synod Disaster Ministry Committee
Shepherd of the Hills, Birmingham, AL.

Our sincerest thanks and gratitude go out to The Island Church in Orange Beach for housing and staging, The Rothrock Foundation for generously providing meals, and the St. Clair Baptist Association and the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief (SBC Disaster Relief) for laundry services.

A huge thank you goes out to The City of Orange Beach today. They just brought in a 100 gallon tank of gas to our Island Church camp, to keep equipment and vehicles fueled and ready to do more work in Baldwin County.

The damages from this latest hurricane will be felt for months and years to come, but with your help and new volunteers, we can get more hurricane survivors back on the path from surviving to thriving.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to support communities most in need of our assistance. Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well. The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19 and Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

If you can't join us in person, you can still be one of our "Home Heroes" by fundraising for us. It's so quick & easy, start fundraising now and share your campaign within minutes to your family and friends. If you'd like help setting up your campaign, please email Sarah.Burke@weinspirit.org for a consultation.

It costs approximately $50 per day to make sure our volunteer housing and vehicles are fogged and sanitized daily, and our volunteers have the PPE equipment they need to stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Could you please sponsor our volunteers for a day, to help keep them safe?

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 20: Updates from the Gulf Coast

INSPIRITUS DISASTER RELIEF: ON THE GROUND IN ALABAMA

Sabrina More, our Disaster Relief Volunteer Manager helping a homeowner

HURRICANE SALLY

Currently, we have close to 40 jobs in the queue (with more coming in daily) to be worked on. There is a huge need here, especially in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Daphne, Dauphin Island, and throughout Baldwin County. The storm has now left the current news cycle, and there are not many other organizations on the ground helping these hurricane survivors. If you'd like to volunteer with us, we need your help. Please join us!

Due to the high level of local need for volunteers, we’re extending our Hurricane Sally Response to a 4-week operation. Many of our volunteers have been serving for four weeks, between Hurricane Laura and Sally. New volunteers are needed to provide them with relief, and replace those who need to return home. We need new volunteers to support this two week extension.

If you can't join us in person, you can still be one of our "Home Heroes" by fundraising for us. It's so quick & easy, start here and share your campaign within minutes to your family and friends. If you'd like help setting up your campaign, Sarah Burke is happy to walk you through it. Please email her for a consultation at Sarah.Burke@weinspirit.org

We've heard from so many kind homeowners over the past week. Here is what one homeowner had to say:

"Inspiritus has had a team working at my house for two days now. I could not have done this work by myself. I'm just calling to say thank you."

- Resident of Orange Beach, AL

We even had a visit from Mayor Tony Kennon of the City of Orange Beach. The Mayor stopped by for a tour of our temporary base and to commend our volunteer efforts.

Our sincerest thanks and gratitude go out to The Island Church in Orange Beach for housing our response team, as well as providing a large garage for staging and storing our tools and equipment. Our daily thanks goes out to The Rothrock Foundation for generously providing meals, and to the representatives from the St. Clair Baptist Association and the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief (SBC Disaster Relief) for their assistance with laundry services.

The damages from this latest hurricane will be felt for months and years to come:

• Many homes have suffered flooding and water damages, and will require significant mucking and gutting to remove flooring, ceilings, insulation, sheet rock, cabinetry, and damaged household goods and furniture

• Extensive chainsawing and roof tarping services are needed to remove downed trees and protect damaged homes from further water damages.

HURRICANE LAURA

Last week, our Inspiritus disaster response team evacuated from Southwest Louisiana due to the threat from Tropical Storm Beta.  There is more work to be done. It's not too late to donate to efforts there. Thrivent is still matching your donations.

Mayor Tony Kennon discussing response work with volunteers at our Island Church base. To watch his briefing and hear his thoughts on Inspiritus, click here (14:11 min mark):

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to assess the communities most in need of our assistance.

Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well. Whether in the immediate days following a disaster or years after its initial impact, the vital work of disaster ministry has been a priority for the Southeastern Synod for many years.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 18: Updates from the Gulf Coast

INSPIRITUS DISASTER RELIEF: ON THE GROUND IN ALABAMA

HURRICANE SALLY

It’s a "mini reunion" for our Hurricane Sally response team in Orange Beach, Alabama. Volunteers from other disaster response missions have come together again to help homeowners recover from this latest storm.

Please join us!

The Rothrock Foundation is still here, generously providing delicious meals to all our staff members and volunteers on the ground. A shower trailer has been loaned to us by the Alabama St. Clair Baptist Association. Three dedicated ladies from this association will be providing laundry services for each of our volunteers. Special thanks to these ladies for serving as representatives of the St. Clair Baptist Association and the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief (SBC Disaster Relief).

Our sincerest thanks and gratitude go out to The Island Church in Orange Beach for housing our response team, as well as providing a large garage for staging and storing all our tools and equipment.

The damages are extensive from this latest hurricane:

• Many homes have suffered flooding and water damages, and will require significant mucking and gutting to remove flooring, ceilings, insulation, sheet rock, cabinetry, and damaged household goods and furniture

• Extensive chainsawing and roof tarping services are needed to remove downed trees and protect damaged homes from further water damages.

HURRICANE LAURA

Last week, our Inspiritus disaster response team evacuated from Southwest Louisiana due to the threat from Tropical Storm Beta. 

There is more work to be done. It's not too late to donate to efforts there. Thrivent is still matching your donations.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to assess the communities most in need of our assistance.

Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well. Whether in the immediate days following a disaster or years after its initial impact, the vital work of disaster ministry has been a priority for the Southeastern Synod for many years.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 15: Updates from the Gulf Coast

INSPIRITUS DISASTER RELIEF: ON THE GROUND IN ALABAMA

HURRICANE LAURA

This past weekend, our Inspiritus disaster response team evacuated from Southwest Louisiana due to the threat from Tropical Storm Beta. 

There is more work to be done. It's not too late to donate to efforts there. Thrivent is still matching your donations.

Special thanks to The Home Depot Foundation for donating much needed supplies to our Inspiritus Disaster Relief efforts.

HURRICANE SALLY

Our disaster response teams are on the ground in Orange Beach, Alabama. They've been working hard assessing damages and clearing debris over the past several days.

What does all this damage from Hurricane Sally mean for residents impacted along the Gulf Coast?

• Widespread power outages (some communities are projected to be without power for up to a month or more)

• Many homes have suffered flooding and water damages, and will require significant mucking and gutting to remove flooring, ceilings, insulation, sheet rock, cabinetry, and damaged household goods and furniture

• Extensive chainsawing is needed to remove downed trees that are slowing local and emergency efforts to restore access to roads and power

• Power outages are creating an unprecedented interruption of jobs and education, as so many households are dependent on electricity to engage in virtual working and learning during this COVID-19 pandemic

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to assess the communities most in need of our assistance.

Gifts to the ELCA Southeastern Synod Disaster Response will be used to support disaster relief on the ground, as well. Whether in the immediate days following a disaster or years after its initial impact, the vital work of disaster ministry has been a priority for the Southeastern Synod for many years.

The partnership between the Southeastern Synod and Inspiritus leverages the strengths and resources each bring to the table for the benefit of individuals and communities in need of hope and healing in the wake of a disaster.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 11: Updates from the Gulf Coast

DAY 11: UPDATES FROM THE GULF COAST

HURRICANE LAURA

On Saturday, our Inspiritus disaster response team evacuated from Southwest Louisiana due to the threat from Tropical Storm Beta. Coastal flooding from Beta's storm surge has already occurred on the Texas and Louisiana coasts.

Although our team has moved, it's not too late to donate to our efforts there. Thrivent is still matching your donations, and Inspiritus could still use your assistance!

"My “home” for the next couple of weeks. ️We have moved our base camp over to Orange Beach Alabama where Hurricane Sally has caused a lot of damage."

-Sabrina More, Disaster Relief Volunteer Manager

HURRICANE SALLY

Over the weekend, our response team moved to their new volunteer camp at The Island Church in Orange Beach, Alabama. Orange Beach is an area where Hurricane Sally, a Category 2 hurricane, caused significant destruction last week. Orange Beach received over 29.99 inches of rain, similar to nearby Pensacola, which received 24.80 inches.

What does all this damage from Hurricane Sally mean for residents impacted along the Gulf Coast?

• Widespread power outages (some communities are projected to be without power for up to a month or more)

• Many homes have suffered flooding and water damages, and will require significant mucking and gutting to remove flooring, ceilings, insulation, sheet rock, cabinetry, and damaged household goods and furniture

• Extensive chainsawing is needed to remove downed trees that are slowing local and emergency efforts to restore access to roads and power

• Power outages are creating an unprecedented interruption of jobs and education, as so many households are dependent on electricity to engage in virtual working and learning during this COVID-19 pandemic

• More flooding this week with over-flowing rivers and streams (according to the National Weather Service)

Temperatures get checked twice a day, as part of our COVID-19 safety measures

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

We're working closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to assess the communities most in need of our assistance.

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

Help at this stage ensures unserved communities impacted by Hurricane Sally will receive free roof tarping, muck and gut services, debris removal, and spontaneous volunteer leadership. We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

We're also keeping a watchful eye on other developing storms. This hurricane season has produced almost twice the average number of storms with 23 named so far. The average hurricane season produces 12.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 8: Two Hurricanes in One Week

DAY 8: UPDATES FROM THE GROUND

HURRICANE LAURA

Today is Day 8 on the ground for our Inspiritus disaster response team in Louisiana and Texas.

Here are the services that our teams are providing:

• Muck and gutting water-damaged sheet rock, insulation, ceilings and floors, etc.

• Tarping wind-damaged roofs to prevent further water damage

• Chainsawing large fallen trees (up to 20+ feet in diameter)

The Rothrock Foundation has kindly served over 500+ volunteer meals to our teams, and will continue to stay on site at our volunteer camp into the next week.

HURRICANE SALLY

Hurricane Sally made landfall this week as a Category 2 hurricane. With wind speeds of over 105 mph, it has brought severe flooding, downed trees, and massive power outages.

Our team of disaster response volunteers are preparing to deploy as needed. Currently, we are on the ground in Louisiana cleaning up debris, mucking and gutting, and tarping roofs after Hurricane Laura's impact. If needed, we are preparing to set up a second volunteer base to assist with clean-up from Hurricane Sally.

We are working closely with our partners in the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to assess the communities most in need of our assistance across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. Together, we are also in communication with local VOADs and emergency management officials to ensure we are aware of communities with unmet needs.

What does all this damage from Hurricane Sally mean for residents impacted along the Gulf Coast?

• Widespread power outages (some communities are projected to be without power for up to a month or more)

• Many homes have suffered flooding and water damages, and will require significant mucking and gutting to remove flooring, ceilings, insulation, sheet rock, cabinetry, and damaged household goods and furniture

• Extensive chainsawing is needed to remove downed trees that are slowing local and emergency efforts to restore access to roads and power

• Power outages are creating an unprecedented interruption of jobs and education, as so many households are dependent on electricity to engage in virtual working and learning during this COVID-19 pandemic

• More flooding is on the way this weekend and next week with over-flowing rivers and streams (according to the National Weather Service)

Temperatures get checked twice a day, as part of our COVID-19 safety measures

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Those we're serving are experiencing multiple disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.
Please donate today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

To learn more about volunteering with this response, please register here.

We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist Hurricane Laura survivors and prepare to assist those impacted by Hurricane Sally.

Another tropical storm is brewing in the Gulf of Mexico now, which is anticipated to impact the Gulf Coast next week. We are monitoring the trajectory of this storm closely and preparing.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.

Day 6: Two Hurricanes in One Week

DAY 6: UPDATES FROM THE GROUND

HURRICANE LAURA

Today is Day 6 on the ground for our Inspiritus disaster response team in Louisana and Texas. We've accomplished a lot over the past week.

Here's what's happened:

• Completed 53 volunteer days (served over 5 days)

• 7 homes received roof tarping and/or muck and gutting

• Chainsawed 15+ large trees (up to 20 feet in diameter)

• The Rothrock Foundation has kindly served over 500 volunteer meals

HURRICANE SALLY

Now, Hurricane Sally made landfall yesterday as a Category 2 hurricane. With wind speeds of over 105 mph, it has brought the threat of deadly flooding, debris, and massive power outages to an already vulnerable region.

Our team of disaster response volunteers are preparing to deploy as needed. Currently, we are on the ground in Louisiana cleaning up debris, mucking and gutting, and tarping roofs after Hurricane Laura's impact. If needed, we are preparing to set up a second volunteer base in Alabama, Georgia or Mississippi to assist with clean-up from Hurricane Sally.

We are working closely with our partners, the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA and Lutheran Disaster Response, to assess the communities most in need of our assistance across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. Together, we are also in communication with local VOADs and emergency management officials to ensure we are collaborating and prioritizing communities with unmet needs.

OUR PARTNERS:

We’re extremely grateful for our collaborative partners during this difficult time, especially:

• Southeastern Synod of the ELCA

• Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod of the ELCA

• Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response (Upbring)

• Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (Bridge City, TX)

• Lutheran Disaster Response

• Rothrock Foundation

• Christian Emergency Network

• Thrivent

• Home Depot

Those we're serving are experiencing three disasters at the same time: COVID-19, Hurricane Laura, and now Hurricane Sally. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most. Please donate today. Your help during the early days of a disaster is critical.

We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist Hurricane Laura survivors and prepare to assist those in the path of Hurricane Sally.

Please join us in prayer for the volunteers and local residents along the Gulf Coast.

Gratefully,
Virginia Spencer
Vice President of Development
Inspiritus

Our Hurricane Laura Response is made possible through the above partnerships.