SAN ANTONIO — Texas Baptist Men is prepared to deploy crews storm-ravaged communities in the deep south where at least 25 people were killed after tornados ripped through communities across Mississippi and Alabama.
“These folks have worked so hard for their entire lives, just to provide for their children, provide for their spouses, to make a life for themselves and in just a matter of moments, they’ve lost it all,” said John Hall, communications director for Texas Baptist Men.
The faith-based non-profit is the third largest voluntary disaster relief network in the U.S. behind the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.
Texas Baptist Men is keeping in constant communication with ministry partners and officials on the ground in Mississippi.
Tornado survivors are left wondering what’s next as they attempt to gain the strength to overcome such tragedy and destruction.
“I know what it’s like standing next to someone who has (lost everything) and just to see the tears and trauma on their face, it’s heartbreaking just to think about it,” Hall said.
Crews with Texas Baptist Men are ready to deliver help, hope and healing as the organization has done since 1967. Ministry partners in Arkansas and Mississippi are already providing disaster relief.
“They’re providing food. They’ve also brought in chainsaw teams. We’re looking to bring in additional chainsaw teams hopefully down the road. We’ll also bring in heavy equipment. This is Bobcats, large generators,” Hall said.
The road to recovery will take months and even years, but Texas Baptist Men remains committed to serving as long as they’re needed.
“There’s a strength to overcome and for many of those of us of a faith background that strength comes from God, and God helps us overcome even the most difficult days of our lives," Hall said.
To learn how you can provide relief through Texas Baptist Men, visit their website here.