Katie’s home was among thousands that suffered significant damage when the worst flooding in at least 40 years devastated parts of New Brunswick in May.
She contacted Samaritan’s Purse, because donations from people like you enabled us to move one of our specially equipped Disaster Relief Unit tractor trailers to Fredericton. There, we publicized a phone number (1-844-547-2663) where flood victims could request help.
Joe Park, one of our assessors, arrived at Katie’s home and found her distraught. How could she possibly begin to deal with her waterlogged basement and damaged possessions?
Joe assured her that Samaritan’s Purse volunteers would soon be providing help at no cost to her.
“I saw Katie’s demeanor change,” he said. “You could see the relief on her face because now something could be done to help her situation.”
Volunteers recruited, trained and equipped
We work with partner churches to recruit, train, and equip volunteers. Then, under the guidance of team leaders, we send them out to remove mud, water and damaged possessions from basements. In New Brunswick, we were also cleaning up first floors of homes because the water levels were so high.
After that, our volunteers strip away damaged drywall, insulation, and flooring, then spray the affected areas to battle mold. At this point, the house is ready for repair.
Since 2008, Samaritan’s Purse has helped flooded New Brunswick residents five times. Each time, crisis-trained Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains have accompanied us to offer emotional and spiritual support to volunteers and residents.
“You could see the relief on her face because now something could be done to help her situation.”
“I’ve met with four homeowners who we assisted after flooding in 2008 and that’s how they remembered us,” said Joe. “It’s sad that we have to help them again, but they’re just so grateful because they know we’re going to help them get back to a place where they can repair their houses.”
You can be part of this Kingdom work through your donations and prayers. Please partner with us so that together, we can show hurting New Brunswick residents a God who “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3, ESV).
Help Samaritan's Purse respond quickly to victims of disasters within Canada, providing not only physical assistance as people clean up and rebuild after floods, fires, and other disasters, but also emotional and spiritual support in the aftermath of tragedy.