VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 8/3/22)—In response to devastating flash floods in counties throughout Eastern Kentucky that were spawned by torrential rains, American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), on behalf of American Baptist Churches USA, has launched a One Great Hour of Sharing campaign to raise much-needed funds to aid victims of a natural disaster that prompted Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to declare a state of emergency.
Floodwaters killed at least 37 people and forced hundreds more to flee their homes. With many people still missing, authorities expect the death toll to rise as first responders and the National Guard continue their search and rescue efforts amid the destruction.
ABHMS representatives have been in communication with the Rev. Mark Thompson, American Baptist Executive Minister for Indiana and Kentucky. In turn, they and 70-plus people representing volunteer organizations active in disaster response and relief have been coordinating efforts to address this tragedy. These efforts include giving through One Great Hour of Sharing.
“Please pray for our brothers and sisters who have lost loved ones, have family members and friends who are missing and have been displaced from their homes,” said Dr. Jeffrey Haggray, ABHMS executive director. “And consider prayerful giving: your financial gifts will provide food, clothing, medical supplies and shelter, and other critical assistance as additional needs are identified. “
How you can help
Please join us in supporting the relief efforts for Eastern Kentucky as the area braces for another wave of rain.
Donations can be made via your church or online here.
Checks designated to “OGHS Kentucky Floods 2022” should be mailed to the ABHMS Office of Development care of Kim Wilkins, 1075 First Ave., King of Prussia, PA 19406.
To ensure your church receives credit for your gift, please include the church name on the check.
One hundred percent of your donation is allocated to these relief efforts. No funds are retained to cover administrative costs.
One Great Hour of Sharing is administered by the World Relief Committee of the Board of General Ministries of American Baptist Churches USA. The committee facilitates American Baptist emergency relief, disaster rehabilitation, refugee work and development assistance by establishing policy guidelines and overseeing distribution of the annual One Great Hour of Sharing offering received by churches.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.