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UPDATE: Hurricane Florence Disaster Response

Shane Engel • September 18, 2018

Disaster Response Update: Hurricane Florence

Many around the United states are asking what they can do to help with our disaster response to Hurricane Florence. HOPE worldwide ‘s Global Disaster Response team has been in contact over the weekend with leaders from our chapter partner’s and the ICOC Churches in the Carolina’s. Our team is in North Carolina and has begun an assessment with local leaders to determine the extent of the damage and how HOPE worldwide and our amazing volunteers can help the area through the coming months.

As of today, 31 people have lost their lives and thousands of homes have been flooded. Unfortunately, the flooding is not over yet. Rivers in the area are expected to reach their maximum flood level in the next two days. Wilmington and Jacksonville have been completely inaccessible until recently and now there is only one road open. Most of the Jacksonville Church congregation evacuated and have yet to return to assess damage to their homes. Some stayed in the Wilmington area and though their homes are undamaged the flooding in Wilmington is widespread.

Based on our joint assessments this week, HOPE worldwide will call for volunteers in the coming weeks to travel to North Carolina to assist in debris removal and cleaning out homes. In order to create a safe working environment for our volunteers, the earliest this will happen would be the weekend of October 6th.

For those churches or individuals who have collected items for distribution in the area, tomorrow we will identify locations in Wilmington, Jacksonville and Fayetteville that can accept donations and get that word out.

We will put out a call for volunteers as soon as we confirm the level of need and how best we can help meet those needs. Thank you for your amazing hearts to serve. Follow us on Facebook for the most up to date information and news concerning disaster response.

For information about HOPE worldwide , please contact Shane Engel, Chief Communications Officer, at shane.engel@hopeww.org

For more information regarding disaster response, please contact Dave Tomlinson, Director of Disaster Response, at dave.tomlinson@hopeww.org.

Please consider making a donation at www.hopeww.org/disaster

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and brother, Dave Tomlinson. Dave was a beloved part of the HOPE worldwide family who served in many capacities throughout his time with us, most recently as Chief Operating Officer before his retirement. He also played an important role in our Global Disaster Response and Community Service Brigades teams, serving alongside his wife, Angela. More than the roles he held, Dave was a cherished friend whose warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit touched so many people. His care for others was evident in the way he served, led, and built relationships with people around the world. Dave had a remarkable ability to encourage, uplift, and connect with people, reflecting God's love in both his leadership and his friendships. We will miss Dave deeply and are grateful for the many ways he gave of himself to HOPE worldwide and to the amazing people we get to serve. We’re holding Angela and their family close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Dave’s presence will be deeply missed, but his faith, love, and example will remain in our hearts forever and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.