A Helping Hand When All Seems Lost

When eastern Kentucky was struck by heavy rain and dangerous flooding, for many people, the water came with little warning.

Brenda said, “It came fast. If we would have waited too much longer, we wouldn’t have made it out. We watched the water keep coming, keep coming.” Pointing to her waist level, she added, “It got up on my house to here.”

Brenda’s an 89-year-old widow, without much of an income.  

“And now to go with no husband and nothing, that’s all I have,” said Brenda. 

Brenda lost a lot, but she managed to keep her loved ones safe. The night of the flood, she had family staying over.

Brenda explained, “We had three of four great grandchildren here. And, we loaded them in the car. That’s where we stayed till it was over. And I tried to tell them we’ve got each other.” 

Operation Blessing quickly mobilized to help families in eastern Kentucky take their first steps toward recovery. Volunteers arrived at Brenda’s house, ripped up damaged floors, and tore out flood-soaked drywall.

“Operation Blessing is a blessing,” said Brenda. “They’ve worked so hard today, and it is so hot. They moved stuff out, they’ve carried garbage, they’ve worked so, so hard.”

Operation Blessing also brought the family emergency meal kits, water, and cleaning supplies to help them get back on their feet.

Brenda said, “They have to love people, and love the Lord, to do things like that, for people. Or they couldn’t do it. They are loving people.” 

Thanks to the support of Operation Blessing partners, volunteers are helping families with their damaged homes, and also brining much needed hope.

With a smile, Brenda said, “I would like to say to the partners, ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you. God bless you.’”