RESTORING HOPE IN NORTH CAROLINAIn September 2024, North Carolina was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene, primarily in its western Appalachian region, causing significant destruction of infrastructure and residential areas.
LERT Volunteers Restore Hope for Mrs. L.![]() LERT volunteers helped Mrs. L. clear large uprooted trees and debris from her farm and out of her corn field. With eight feet of water flowing through her property, the usually gentle creek became a torrent that knocked down large oak trees around her home and left lots of debris in her corn fields. The dedicated LCC LERT volunteers worked tirelessly to help Mrs. L. clear her land, removing the remnants of the storm that had wreaked havoc on her home and livelihood. Their hands-on assistance not only alleviated the physical burden of debris removal but also provided Mrs. L. with a renewed sense of hope. "I am so grateful for the help," she expressed, her voice filled with emotion. "I hope to replant my crops this spring, and with this support, I believe I can." Serving as the Hands and Feet of Jesus Our dedicated LERT volunteers had the honor of assisting Mr. and Mrs. W. by removing numerous downed and leaning trees from their expansive property. Following Mr. W.'s recent major cancer surgery, he expressed immense gratitude for the care and support provided by our team. Once capable of managing such tasks himself, Mr. W. found it challenging to ask for help, yet he was deeply touched by our willingness to step in. We reminded him that it is our privilege to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those in need with love and compassion. Demonstrating Compassion and Skill![]() LERT volunteers demonstrated compassion and skill while helping a couple restore their property. Mr. R. suffered a traumatic brain injury a few years ago and has short-term memory difficulties. Despite the challenges of dealing with multiple fallen oak trees from their neighbor's yard that miraculously missed the couple's home and a dangerous leaning tree, these dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of the home. They worked with great care using several rigging techniques to avoid any damage during the removal process of the large tree. After several hours, it was finally brought to the ground safely, without causing any damage to the house, shed, or fencing. Throughout their service, they connected with Mr. R., patiently listening to his stories and providing emotional support, embodying the essence of community care. The homeowners expressed immense gratitude, not only for the physical assistance but for the genuine connections made during this trying time. LCC LERT wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful congregation of Mt. Pisgah in Hendersonville for their unwavering hospitality and support. Your generous provision of meals and a welcoming environment have been instrumental in empowering LCC teams to serve with passion and dedication. Your commitment to outreach and care not only uplifts our volunteers but also profoundly impacts the lives of those we serve together. Thank you for embodying the spirit of compassion and community that is central to our mission at LCC. LCC Disaster Response extends sincere thanks to the following LERT volunteers and congregations for their willing service, prayers, and support: ILLINOIS Immanuel, Batavia Bill Pietsch Immanuel, DeKalb Pete Springmire Immanuel, Shobonier Fran Collier Lord of Life, Elburn Kevin Krage, Terry and Mary Kramer, Max Metz, Dave Smercina, Larry Zagorski St. John, Wheaton Steve Chester, Marty Johnson, Julianna and Kate Madden, Anna Piro St. John, Wilmette Tom Morrison St. Paul, Rockford Dean and Carol Ullrich IOWA Trinity, Davenport Ken Stotmeister INDIANA St. John, Dillsboro Steve Black, Ruth Weisbrod TEXAS St. Paul, Austin Pastor Robert LeBlanc Continued Care for Families in Need The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left many communities in need, and there's still much work to be done. Lutheran Church Charities and our LERT volunteers remain steadfast in their commitment to continue to provide compassionate support in the long recovery process to those affected by Helene. Please keep all those affected in your prayers as we work together to rebuild lives and restore hope.
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