On September 26th, Hurricane Helene hit Florida. It was the strongest hurricane to hit the region of Big Bend in Florida with 140 mph. It was also the deadliest hurricane to have hit since Katrina in 2005. The impact of Helene impacted not just Florida, but also, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. It caused 230 deaths. Many people felt the carnage of Helene. Electricity lost, flooding, few supplies - a complete disaster.
I remember when Hurricane Katrina hit. I watched Fox News as Shepard Smith covered the aftermath. So many people sitting on tops of their roofs, getting airlifted into helicopters. The damage done was obvious. I watched the news constantly as they filmed the situation. During a disaster, I usually wish I could go and help out, but I often don't have the means to do so. Like many people, I'm sure. That's why I created this post for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. I'll provide a link you can donate to make a difference there.
I can't imagine what family members went through with these hurricanes. We, as humans, often feel comfortable at home, oblivious to the fact that hurricanes can be a constant worry. Especially, of course, down south. I have to say it. They're brave. There were many hurricanes that hit this year (it was above average). I know that the hurricanes changed many lives. The evacuations that were in place for residents made escaping difficult. I heard that some weren't able to fuel up their cars, and that traffic was packed. They must have been so afraid. I especially think about the children and pets in these instances.
As people begin to pick up the pieces, we can offer some assistance. Some can volunteer, provide aid, and send supplies. Those of us that can't, we can donate and pray. We can also get the word out to others about both hurricanes. If there's family or friends that's been affected, we can offer them hope. We can gather and pray to find the best way to do something for them. Although, not similar, we had to evacuate because of a fire this summer (we were later able to return home). I won't forget the help that we received. It meant a lot to my family. Any kind of reaching out would do so much for those that were affected during the hurricanes. You can make a difference in someone's life.
Of course, we can't take the pain away from what someone has endured. If they lost a family member or friend, for instance, that grief will never leave them. In that case, the only thing you can do is be there for them. If they ask for something in particular, you can provide it. And pray. Pray a lot. I'm saying this because life can be extremely hard, and we all need those special ones that show empathy. I'm trying to encourage people to show more compassion during instances like this. If we were placed within the target of a hurricane, we would want any kind of care and love. Just think of others. Please.
Personally, I wish I could do more. But I felt like I needed to write this post, because it's the least I can do. If you feel led to create awareness to this disaster yourself, I encourage you to do so, like on social media or at your church. I understand it's also a private decision to donate for relief efforts. But in case you wanted to donate, I provided a trustworthy place for your donation. Every little bit helps. Anything you can do, whether it's to pray, donate, or bring awareness is greatly valued. I would like to end this post with a big thank you to anyone that's helping those affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
I recommend donating to Samaritan's Purse for its US Disaster Relief Fund.
Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson
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