Churches and faith-based organizations in Appalachia have become critical responders to Hurricane Helene's devastation, blending aid with evangelism in ways that have both inspired and unsettled communities.
Katie Myers reports for Grist.
In short:
- Faith-based groups have played a central role in providing disaster relief after Hurricane Helene, offering supplies, home repairs and financial assistance.
- Some relief efforts include a focus on evangelism, leading to tension with recipients who feel uncomfortable with religious outreach.
- Churches and religious networks are crucial in rural areas, leveraging their community ties and adaptability to fill gaps left by federal and state agencies.
Key quote:
“Helpers that come into crisis situations, whether you are faith based or religious or not, you have a lot of power in that situation.”
— Sarah Ogletree, disaster relief coordinator
Why this matters:
Faith-based organizations often step in where government responses fall short, offering lifesaving aid. However, blending aid with proselytizing can create barriers to equitable assistance. Understanding this dynamic is essential as disasters increase in frequency and severity.
Related: Hurricane Helene’s aftermath leaves rural water systems in crisis
