Disaster Assistance Response Team of the Midsouth Presbytery
As you know, an ice storm hit the Arkansas,
Missouri, nw Tennessee area of our presbytery. Reports are coming in from
our churches in Blytheville,
AR, Kennett and Caruthersville, MO, and Tiptonville, TN. We also
understand that New Madrid was hit very hard. Power is out everywhere, and
folks are having to crawl out of their homes.
Some first responder units (TN State Guard, Red
Cross, etc.) are setting up in some areas, but our help is sorely needed in the
following areas:
Blytheville needs chainsawing, food,
electricians, debris pullers
Tiptonville needs chainsawing, food, and debris
pullers and 'Whatever help you can give us.'
So, off we go. Here's the
plan:
This Sunday, please make a plea to
your congregations to bring bottled water, batteries (AA, C, D) to the
church. We've already had one offer of a chainsaw which is really
helpful. On Monday, take the items to one of four drop-off points -
First Church, Brownsville TN,
First Church, Jackson TN, Trinity Church (Martin, TN) or the Presbytery
offices in Memphis.
On Tuesday, teams will arrive at
First Church, Blytheville. (Folks may choose to stay overnight in the
church)
Depending on available people, we
will send a team to Tiptonville on Wednesday or all travel there. (lodging
at Grace, Dyersburg) We may also be able to send a team to New
Madrid.
We plan on coming back on Thursday and will
schedule other trips during the weeks ahead.
What do we need?
People who can operate chainsaws or pull
debris.
People who can bring food for the teams and
residents.
People who can help coordinate the
effort.
Chainsaws, batteries, water, gas/oil for chainsaws,
handsaws, etc...
I want to join the effort. What
should I do?
Bring sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, towel, warm
clothes, work boots, work gloves, small snacks, medications, rain gear, any
tools that you think might be helpful...
NOTE: This is our first time to respond so
quickly. Please be patient with the learning curve.