Hurricane Helene

Helene made landfall in Florida late evening on Sept. 26 as a very dangerous Category 4 hurricane. The impact of Helene has been felt across multiple states.  With the storm surge, wind damage, and flooding, it is crucial to have the necessary resources to support the many communities that are affected. Helene caused devastating damage in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Your generous gifts will bring hope and encouragement.

PDA is in communication with all affected presbyteries and National VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active In Disaster) to share information and coordinate resources as damage is assessed. PDA has deployed a National Response Team to Tampa Bay Presbytery, Presbytery of Western North Carolina, Northeast Georgia Presbytery and Holston Presbytery. We have approved several initial assistance grant requests and are anticipating additional requests from affected presbyteries to help respond to needs in their communities.

Please join us in praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Helene.

Update, 10/3/24:

It was one week ago that Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida.  Although Helene is gone, the impacts across a 500 mile span will be felt for years to come. Rescue efforts continue in many communities. First responders continue to work around the clock, however, many communities are still inaccessible.

PDA is part of a large and dedicated community of disaster response organizations. PDA has three initial deployment teams in Tampa Bay Presbytery, Holston Presbytery (Eastern Tennessee), and Western North Carolina Presbytery.  Two additional deployments are scheduled to Northeast Georgia Presbytery and Foothills Presbytery (South Carolina).

In addition, PDA has sent six initial assistance grants to six Presbyteries to support unmet immediate needs and two church damage grants.  We anticipate additional grant requests.

Progress is being made but much emergency/response work needs to happen to restore basic services.  Please continue to pray for survivors, those who have experienced loss of loved ones, and responders.

Know that your support of PDA is addressing immediate needs and will provide the necessary resources to support the long-term recovery, which will take many years.