American Baptists extend relief efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton
VALLEY FORGE, PA (01/07/2025)—The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which reached its zenith with back-to-back Hurricanes Helene and Milton, marked one of the deadliest in United States history. Across the Gulf Coast and deep into Appalachia, more than 300 lives were lost amid unfathomable destruction. In response, the American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) has been working alongside American Baptist Churches of the South (ABCOTS), American Baptist Men (ABMen USA), and other partners to bring relief to devastated communities.
Hurricane Helene, which struck Florida’s Big Bend region on September 26, caused catastrophic flooding and wind damage as it steamrolled 500 miles inland into western North Carolina, where 225 people were killed. Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Milton made landfall near Tampa Bay, Fla., unleashing heavy rains, flooding, and tornadoes as it rambled across that state.
“Our mission is to respond to crises with faith-driven action, offering immediate relief and laying a foundation for long-term recovery,” said Dr. Jeffrey Haggray, ABHMS executive director. “Through the generosity of American Baptists, we are delivering tangible support to communities struggling to recover from these disasters.”
Ongoing Relief and Recovery Efforts
American Baptists have been actively involved in disaster relief, demonstrating remarkable generosity and service. Key initiatives include:
- Essential Services: Shower and laundry trailers, funded by ABHMS and maintained by ABMen, an organization committed to bringing men and boys into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ and equipping them for mission and outreach, were stationed for extended periods in Bat Cave and Swannanoa, NC. There they served approximately 70 individuals or families each week.
- Volunteer Teams: Chainsaw and mud-out crews from the West Virginia Baptist Convention and others have been aiding in debris removal and home clean-up.
- Community Distribution: On November 9, a tractor-trailer delivered critical supplies to First Institutional Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Fla., and hosted a pop-up distribution event for infants to elders.
- Rebuilding Projects: From December 6 to 14, ABMen and Lott Carey Men joined to conduct rebuilding assessments. They also cleared downed trees with chainsaws and performed carpentry work. Lott Carey Men, named for African American missionary Lott Carey, is part of a global missional community that partners with local organizations to extend Christian witness and rebuild lives after disasters.
- Future Opportunities: ABHMS will post volunteer opportunities in early 2025, focusing on rebuilding and pastoral care in underserved communities.
“Seeing the widespread destruction and loss of life caused by violent storm systems that manifested during the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, especially Hurricanes Helene and Milton, is heartbreaking,” said the Rev. Lisa Harris Lee, ABHMS’ director of Healing & Transforming Communities. “However, the outpouring of support and the dedication of volunteers give hope and strength to those affected.”
How You Can Help
American Baptists encourage donations to One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS), ensuring 100% of funds are directed toward domestic disaster relief. Contributions may be made online or mailed to ABHMS’ Office of Development.
For more information on ongoing relief efforts and how to volunteer, visit abhms.org.
ABHMS partners with American Baptists across the United States and Puerto Rico to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders, and bring healing and transformation to communities.
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.
