Community Involvement

Volunteerism

A Week in Mississippi
 

The purpose of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is to provide a ministry of "relief and response to national and international disasters, aid to refugees and displaced persons, refugee resettlement, and efforts toward development."    

With help from numerous Presbyterians both within the affected area and around the country, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is breathing life into "Volunteer Villages" in Mississippi, which will help storm-stricken communities over the long haul. Our camp was based out of the Orange Grove Mississippi Presbyterian Church.  A small temporary village was set up including housing, showers, storage, and dining facilities. This village was set up to accommodate 100 people and is to be kept available for 3 to 5 years. We had hot water, hot food and heat supplied to our PODS (cardboard tents) on the cold nights. 

Our team spent the first day assessing damages at about a dozen homes. We reported back to our village and were given our assignment for the week. Our task was helping a young family who lost everything to rebuild a home that somewhat survived the storm.  They purchased this home after the hurricane as a symbol of hope for rebuilding their lives.  My skill sets were limited, but once I left Mississippi I felt comfortable roofing a home, replacing floor joists and installing base flooring.  However, I still plan to pay others when it comes to having my own home repaired! 

I grew up on the Gulf Coast.  New Orleans is my family home and my birthplace.  It brings me joy to know that I was able to bring some small hope to the survivors of such a tragedy.  I encourage each of you to consider helping out wherever possible.  You cannot imagine what is needed there until you see it in person.