The realities a disaster leaves families and communities with are daunting. When people are not prepared for a disaster, life can change in an instant—not only through the terror of the event itself, but in the long and difficult season of recovery that follows. When Hurricane Florence swept through North Carolina in 2018, communities like Ms. Elizabeth’s were profoundly affected.

The storm left the house where Ms. Elizabeth raised her 10 children in ruin. Subflooring and floor joists were rotted, mould crept across the walls, and shingles were torn from the roof, allowing rain to pour inside. Despite the damage, Ms. Elizabeth chose to stay as long as she could, holding onto the home that carried the legacy of her family. Eventually, she agreed to move out for a short season so rebuilding teams could safely begin the work of restoring the house and making it livable once again.

Rebuilding a Place Called Home

After other volunteer groups repaired the roof and replaced doors, Disaster Response Services (DRS) volunteers and local partners spent nearly three weeks working inside the home. Flooring was laid, the kitchen countertop was set, walls were painted, and many smaller but essential tasks were completed. Together, these efforts slowly transformed the house back into a home.

Following a house blessing led by the DRS team, Ms. Elizabeth was able to move back in. By God’s grace, the work was completed in time for the holiday season, giving her the opportunity to gather with family in a space filled with memories, renewal, and gratitude. Today, Ms. Elizabeth is thankful to be home again—grateful for a safe place to rest, and for the comfort of sleeping in her own bed.

When people support disaster response efforts—whether through giving, volunteering, or prayer—they become part of transformative work that brings hope and healing in the aftermath of crisis. From ruin to restoration, God’s grace is at work, enabling people to serve others and offer “the oil of gladness instead of mourning.” (Isaiah 61)