Kentucky Floods Emergency Relief!
Record setting rain created devastating floods that ripped through eastern Kentucky in late July, 2022. Tens of thousands were evacuated from their homes, leaving thousands homeless for months or years to come. According to the National Weather Service, damage estimates are around $400,000,000.
The floods left behind mud and water that climbed as high as the ceilings in many homes. Houses are traditionally built on tall foundations in this part of rural Kentucky, but even a ten foot foundation was no match for flood waters that carried away homes and vehicles. The homes that remained on their foundations will have to be rebuilt down to the studs, including the kitchens where all appliances had to be trashed and replaced.
Shortly after the water receded and help could be offered, Mercy-USA was on the scene in Floyd county, KY to begin assisting affected families.
We recruited volunteers from the Muslim communities in Louisville and Lexington who formed teams that collected cleaning supplies, baby diapers and other asked for supplies from within their own communities. They also helped us fill a rented truck with small refrigerators/freezers, cooktops, microwaves and other useful small appliances to be distributed to families as they are able to re-enter their homes to clean up and rebuild. Our staff also distributed Visa gift cards to flood survivors. More than once, people asked, “Are you sure there isn’t a neighbor who needs this more than us?” This said while stuck in a shelter or as they were cleaning out three feet of mud from their devastated home. Many of the people we helped are elderly and will need a lot more assistance getting their lives back on track.
On a second trip to the flood affected region our team distributed $500 Lowes gift cards to vulnerable families attempting to rebuild their homes. With the help of Christian Appalachian Project, a nondenominational charity with deep ties to these rural communities, we were able to reach extremely needy households. One recipient of the gift card, Luecrecia Hicks said, “This $500 gift card will help repair my bathroom so I can shower again.”
