The Southeastern Synod Disaster Response Team is currently in communication with Tennessee Emergency Management Agency officials and other disaster response agencies following the fires that swept into Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas yesterday. Strong winds pushed nearby forest fires into town causing at least 150 homes and buildings to be destroyed. A number of deaths attributed to the fires are now being reported.
We have confirmed that members of Our Savior, Gatlinburg were among those who lost homes and possessions in the fires. We understand that Our Savior's building is intact but this has not been confirmed by the Rev. Jim Korzun, pastor, Our Savior, or members of the congregation. Access to affected neighborhoods is currently prohibited as local officials secure the impacted area making property assessments impossible at this time.
At this time, cash donations to either the Southeastern Synod Disaster Ministry or to Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) are most needed. Once our own disaster responders can get in and assess the needs, additional information will be provided. In the meantime, cash donations will allow our responders to get to work immediately.
In addition to these fires in Tennessee, tornadoes touched down in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee over the last 48 hours. Our team is also assessing needs in those communities and will be responding as they are able.
Thank you for your prayers and for your financial support for those affected by natural disasters. Please watch for more information and additional ways to respond in the coming days.
