In June 2013 a wildfire swept through the community of Yarnell, Arizona destroying approximately one hundred and thirty structures. Some of these were homes of the elderly on Social Security who were not insured. A local group was organized to assist these unfortunate people. Generous individuals and corporate sponsors donated building materials for eleven homes. However, there was still a need for volunteers to build these homes.
 Brothers in the Prescott and Phoenix congregations presented this opportunity to the USA Committee for consideration as a World Relief project. It was approved and work began on September 30th and continued through December 13, 2013.
During this ten week period 125 volunteers from 23 congregations came to work on six new homes. The World Relief Disaster Fund provided $75,000 for this project. Additionally, two tool trailers and four World Relief vehicles were sent to Arizona to facilitate the work.
The funds were spent to house and feed the volunteers, for fuel and maintenance of the World Relief vehicles and to purchase a minimal amount of building supplies. The work project brought an influx of visitors and increased fellowship opportunities for the small Prescott congregation, who warmly welcomed each one.
|
|
Tornadoes in Oklahoma City
|
 Numerous tornadoes over a period of several weeks in May 2013 ripped paths of devastation through both rural and urban Oklahoma City areas. Thousands of homes were destroyed and 24 lives lost. Our disaster rebuilding project began there on January 6th and continued through March 28, 2014.
Approximately 530 volunteers representing 50 congregations responded to this opportunity to serve. Each week a new group of around 50 volunteers arrived in Oklahoma City. Projects ranged from small interior repair and remodeling jobs to complete rebuilds of three bedroom houses. In several cases, the damaged home was no longer inhabitable and had to be torn down before building could begin. Volunteers worked on approximately 35 different projects.
The World Relief Disaster Fund provided $400,000 for building materials, fuel and vehicle maintenance costs, volunteer housing and meals and all costs associated with the disaster rebuilding project. Unlike most of the recent rebuilding projects where local organizations contributed around half of the material costs, nearly all of the building materials for this project were paid for from World Relief funds, with little help from local organizations. |
|
Future Disaster Rebuilding Projects
|
These projects continue to be a great blessing to all who participate. Both the recipients and those who come to serve experience the Lord's goodness and blessings. God's hand of blessing has been both seen and felt by those who have seized the opportunity.
Future disaster rebuilding projects are being considered and there will, no doubt, be more opportunities to serve. The need for further assistance in Washington, Illinois is currently being evaluated. It is the goal of the USA Committee to have a project of this type each year - typically January through March. These opportunities will be communicated through email and at www.acworldrelief.org.
|
We live in a land of awesome natural splendor, varied climatic zones and great diversity in the landscape. The beauty of the land can quickly change into a scene of massive destruction and devastation. When a natural disaster occurs there is little that can be done to contain the forces of nature. The fury unleashed by a hurricane or tornado cannot be halted by the mere efforts of man. God is in control! 
In the words of one victim, "You not only built me a house, but you restored hope in my life." Others have said: "I can't believe you take time off from work, travel across the country and work to build a house for somebody you don't even know!... and then you say 'Thank you' for the opportunity to serve." 
Please pray for the Lord's blessing as we seek to do His will to serve the needs of those who have suffered from disasters.