NEWSLETTER, OCTOBER 2019
Hurricane season brings a humbling reminder that, despite our technologies, most of nature remains unpredictable.
–Diane Ackerman
Since the devastating Hurricane Dorian struck the Bahamas just weeks ago, a humanitarian crisis has enveloped this nation less than 100 miles from Florida. We have been working with our distribution partners to get help and aid into the hands of hurting families.
There are an estimated 70,000 people in need of shelter and food right now!
We’ve loaded nine planes, three 40-foot shipping containers, and one tractor trailer that was transferred onto a barge — all headed to the Bahamas. Much has been done, but the needs are far greater and our work must continue.
Can you envision how overwhelming it must be for those families who are now homeless, without electricity – searching for drinking water, food and temporary shelter? They need medicine, diapers for their babies, hygiene kits and so much more.
At the same time, there are North Carolinians who are still dealing with flooding and extensive damage from Dorian’s impact. We’ve sent one tractor-trailer load of basic supplies and supporting shipments to North Carolina to help the people on the coast. Yet, more is needed.
And, what about Texas?
Tropical Storm Imelda dropped an average four feet of rainwater on several cities in Texas, leaving people stranded in shelters for many days afterward. We were already responding to Dorian in the Bahamas and North Carolina, and our staff of 11 was stretched thin, but I just had to do something to help the good people of Texas too!
That’s how it goes when you work in disaster relief. You’ve heard it said that “when it rains, it pours.” Well, from September through November, we see how true that statement is…literally!
Anyone who says they’re not afraid at the time of a hurricane is either a fool or a liar, or a little bit of both.
–Anderson Cooper
If you been fortunate to have never experienced such a natural disaster, you should stop and thank God for His protection. It is hard to put into words the extreme realities that occur following these types of devastating storms. Often times, life is never the same for those impacted.
When we can extend a hand of encouragement – a bottle of water, a meal, a blanket – it can be just enough to keep hope alive. With emotions high and stress levels off the charts, every little thing we do makes a huge impact.
Would you join with us to bring hope and encouragement to some very discouraged people?
It’s our busy season at Gleaning. That’s why, right now, we need your support more than ever! We have to pay shipping costs to receive donated items here in our warehouse and we are also responsible for making sure the invoices for these shipments to Texas, North Carolina and the Bahamas get paid.
There are a few ways you can give:
–Online through our donation page.
–Call our office during business hours at 434-993-3600 to give by phone
–Mail a check to Gleaning at PO Box 645 Concord, VA 24538
We’ve been given an opportunity to make a difference. If you feel led to join us, do it today. Don’t delay. People need help how.
PS: Thank you for your partnership in ministry by serving as the hands and feet of Jesus! I’m praying God will reward you for your financial sacrifice in helping those who are facing the greatest challenge of their life. Every gift matters.
In service and partnership,
