By Brian Blackwell, Message Staff Writer
More than a dozen Louisiana Baptist Disaster relief teams and almost a 100 volunteers are working tirelessly to aid the Florida panhandle two weeks after Hurricane Michael dealt a crippling blow to the area.
While a large area of the panhandle was impacted by Michael, Louisiana teams have centered most of their efforts in Marianna, Florida, 75 miles north of Mexico Beach which took the brunt of the storm when it made landfall Oct. 10. There have also been several teams from Louisiana working in and around Panama City.
As of Tuesday, Oct. 23, the seven Southern Baptist Feeding Units there have served an estimated 243,961 meals. The Rolling Hills Ministry’s feeding unit, which is located in Marianna, has averaged roughly 5,200 to 6,200 meals daily.
Louisiana Baptist Convention State Disaster Relief Director Gibbie McMillan said he is thankful for the turn out but there is a great need for even more volunteers to assist the people impacted by the hurricane.
“I cannot thank these volunteers enough for what they have done so far but we are still in great need of even more volunteers, especially in the area of feeding,” said McMillan. “These volunteers are being the hands and feet of Jesus. Come join us to show Christ’s love to many who are hurting.”
Rolling Hills Director David Abernathy visits with an American Red Cross worker in Marianna, Florida. John Cowling photo
Their efforts are appreciated as Florida Gov. Rick Scott paid a surprise visit to the Marianna feeding unit to personally thank the volunteers for their work.
In addition to the feeding units and chainsaw teams, the Ruston-based ministry also has brought its shower unit along with shower units from southeast Louisiana and the Louisiana Baptist Convention in Alexandria and two laundry units.
With more than 45 percent of the state still without electricity, Rolling Hills also has its 40 KW Generator, a 7,000 gallon tank truck filled with water, three skid steers to help move the thousands of downed trees.
Also working in the vicinity were chainsaw teams from the Carey Baptist Association, Eastern Louisiana Baptist Association, Washington Baptist Association, First Baptist, Covington, First Baptist, Haughton and a feeding team from First Baptist, Slidell.
First Baptist Slidell has sent three additional teams from the church to distribute food and water, and place tarps on homes in Panama City, Florida.
Members of a Rolling Hills Ministry Feeding Unit pass through a line to receive their meal. John Cowling photo
Freddie Arnold, the blue hat for the Eastern Louisiana Baptist Association team, worked with the Rolling Hills feeding unit last week in Marianna. He plans to return Thursday, Oct. 25, with a team of 10 from his association. Arnold said most residents he encountered were in disbelief Michael caused so much devastation.
“This is a new experience for many of them,” Arnold said. “We try to listen to their stories and be there for them at this time. The needs will be long term because of the massive amounts of devastation. Please consider joining us as we minister to so many.”
To donate or learn more about how to serve on a Louisiana Baptist Disaster Relief team visit the disaster relief website.
