In November 2021, floodwaters from the Nooksack River surged into Sumas Prairie in British Columbia, Canada, triggering a catastrophic flood that devastated the greater Abbotsford farming community. The disaster affected thousands of homes, disrupted cross-border transportation, and caused significant loss of livestock and poultry. It became one of the costliest disasters in Canadian history, with damages reaching billions.

Neighbours Serving Neighbours

In the midst of rising waters—even in their own basements—local churches mobilized quickly to care for their community. People like Tracy from Gateway Community CRC began thinking beyond their own circumstances to support those who had been hit hardest. Congregations opened their doors to displaced families, distributed food and water, and organized volunteer teams to clean up debris from flooded homes and farms. Many were motivated by a simple conviction: others were facing even greater loss.

Keith, a member of Gateway Community CRC, helped coordinate early response efforts. Within weeks of the flooding, volunteers had cleared debris and cleaned barns on dozens of properties. Their work offered practical relief to homeowners and farmers who were still in shock and unsure how to begin rebuilding. Even long after the waters receded, many families remained displaced, living temporarily with relatives or in trailers.

A United Response for Long-Term Recovery

As the scale of recovery became clear, churches joined together to form the Abbotsford Disaster Response Coalition (ADRC). This collaborative effort seeks to bring help and hope to Sumas Prairie flood survivors, rooted in a shared commitment to serve in the name of Jesus.

What began as a grassroots response has grown into a coordinated, long-term recovery effort supported by organisations like World Renew and other partners. Through this collaboration, ADRC has been able to provide essential household items such as furniture and appliances, as well as building materials for repairs. Many survivors lacked the financial resources to restore their homes or replace what was lost, making this support critical to their recovery.

To date, hundreds of households have received assistance, helping families take meaningful steps toward stability and renewal.

Restoring What Was Lost, Rebuilding Hope

“I am very grateful for the assistance I’ve received from the ADRC after the flood,” shared *Frank. After the disaster, he began repairing his home but struggled to complete the work and replace essential items. Floodwaters damaged his appliances, ruined stored food, and left cabinetry and tools beyond repair.

With support from the ADRC, Frank and his wife received new kitchen appliances, and plans are in place to restore their cabinetry. He was also able to replace essential tools—an important step in returning to his work as a contractor.

For Frank, and many others, this support represents more than material recovery—it is a tangible sign of renewed hope.

Alongside housing support, ADRC continues to offer resources such as a community pantry, meals, and mental health services, ensuring that recovery addresses both practical and emotional needs.