We’re Here… “Because of the generosity of our donors, if your home was destroyed and you lost your contents, whether you are a renter or a homeowner, we will be able to help provide a full bedroom, dining room and living room for those that qualify,” he says. The group is even helping to shield from future disasters by offering a storm shelter installation program. Any new home will be equipped with a concrete interior safe room that can withstand an EF5 tornado. For others, underground shelters can be installed. Jeff says the Rebuild program in Mayfield is expected to last 18 months. It is an investment in Western Kentucky that has not gone unnoticed. “When I think of the people that came at the beginning and have stayed throughout, I think of Mercy Chefs and Samaritan’s Purse,” says Judge Perry. “They have done so much for us and they continue to be a huge resource for the people of Graves County.” For Jeff and Samaritan’s Purse, the gratitude flows the other way. “From the beginning, the community has been nothing but welcoming in allowing us to come in and set up shop and to do the work that we believe we are called to do,” he says. “We are grateful for that and we are grateful for the Mayfield Assembly of God providing us a base of operations. The church is the backbone of what we are doing in the community. Without the church, we couldn’t do what we are doing.” Jeff is eager for his organization to be part of Western Kentucky’s renewal and rebuilding process, alongside others. He wants for the people to feel that God’s love is here with them as that happens. In place of broken spirits, the group wants full hearts and homes. “We want people to know that we are here to serve them, to help as many as possible as we work through the application process,” he says. “We believe we are part of the evidence that God loves them and has not forgotten them. We’re not the only organization, other people are coming alongside because they care about them as well.” “We want the community to know that we are here to help people get back home, as many as possible.” If you need help with rebuilding or repairing your home, replacing furniture or building a storm shelter after the December tornado, Samaritan’s Purse would like to serve you. You can reach them at 828-588-4663 or by email at [email protected]. If you would like to help support Samaritan’s Purse efforts in Western Kentucky or in other recovery efforts around the world, you can donate or learn more by visiting www.samaritanspurse.org. 72 MAY 2022 | PROMOTING EVENTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE | INTHEVUE.C
