While we thank God that Hurricane Dorian weakened in strength and shifted course away from Florida, our hearts are broken for our neighbors in the Bahamas, who are reeling from a direct hit from the storm when it was a Category 5.
As reports and images come in through the news and other sources, the devastation and the needs are overwhelming. Somebody Cares is connecting with ministry partners to obtain assessments and develop a strategy to help. One ministry is collecting supplies that will be shipped to their facility in Freeport, and a large private boat is taking supplies from Fort Lauderdale to Green Turtle Cay. Our Somebody Cares Puerto Rico chapter–still involved with rebuilding from Hurricane Maria–has offered to “pay it forward” by sending resources and manpower, once a logistical plan is in place; and relief partner CRI is collecting solar lights and water filtration units to send over.
Other immediate needs that we are aware of include:
- Batteries, Generators & Extension Cords
- Chainsaws, Chains & Bar Oil
- Workgloves
- Gas Cans
- Duct Tape
- Hammers & Nails
- Battery Operated Fans
- Tarps & Tents
- MREs & Nonperishable Food
- Camping Stoves
- Water Purification Tablets & Filtration Units
- Collapsible 3-Gallon Water Bladders
- Insect Repellent & Mosquito Nets
- Cleaning Supplies, Trash Bags & Disinfecting Wipes
- Baby Diapers
- Sunscreen
If you are able to help with any of the supplies above: Contact our office and we will connect you to ministries that are planning deliveries.
If you want to help with needs immediately: There are many good organizations with strong infrastructure–such as Samaritan’s Purse, Convoy of Hope, and others–that have already arrived or are en route with assistance.
If you want to help Somebody Cares as we prepare a strategy to work with the local churches for long-term relief: You can donate through our website by selecting “Hurricane Response” in the drop-down menu.
We are also monitoring the situation in the Carolinas and the Eastern coastline. While downgraded to a Category 2, Dorian is still a dangerous storm bringing the possibility of 100+ mph winds, a storm surge, and flooding to an area of the country that was hit by Hurricane Florence just one year ago.
Please pray for protection and provision for all those who have suffered loss as well as the first responders.
We will be emailing and posting updates on our website and social media as things develop.
Thank you for caring!