An outbreak of tornadoes plowed through five states on 10 December, killing dozens and leaving thousands without water, heat, or electricity. In Kentucky—the state hit hardest—more than 1,000 homes have been destroyed. As search and recovery efforts continue there, officials have reported 74 dead and 109 unaccounted. In all five states, at least 88 people have been killed by the impact of the storm. 

The scope of the damage in Kentucky has created ongoing problems for residents. One twister leveled all buildings, trees, and entire towns in its 200-mile path. In addition to the massive clean-up and rebuilding efforts required for residents to resume normal life, internet, power, and cell phone outages, as well as boil-water advisories, remain for portions of the state.

In the midst of the devastation, Nazarenes have responded with compassion. The First Church of the Nazarene in Mayfield served as a storm shelter the night of the tornadoes and has since become a Red Cross shelter for residents impacted by the storm. Kentucky District Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, led by Bob McCabe, has begun organizing several groups that will travel to affected areas to assist with clean up. 

The network of Nazarene churches from neighboring communities offers a support system for hosting relief efforts that will last for several months to come. Churches in Bowling Green, Madisonville, and Paducah will be housing Work & Witness teams that will assist the hard-hit areas of Mayfield, Dawson Springs, and Bowling Green. The South Carolina District Disaster Response Team is delivering a brand-new shower trailer to Paducah in support of relief operations there. Due to the high volume of donations already contributed, workers on the ground have expressed concern with storage. 

Owners are still returning to their properties, and with their return comes the realization that residents of damaged areas face a long season of recovery. While many have been quick to respond, organizers have begun to think in terms of the weeks and months that lie ahead. For now, McCabe has asked for a slight delay in the shipment of relief items.

How You Can Help

Pray

Pray for those who have lost loved ones, possessions, and livelihoods. Pray for those still unaccounted for and for their relatives and friends who grieve not knowing if they have survived. Pray for those vulnerable to additional crises in the midst of their displacement and dislocation. Pray for responders equipped to serve and dignify devastated communities with compassion. To send a prayer or note of encouragement, go to ncm.org/pray. 

Give 

Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the NCM 2021 Storm Response fund. Donations will be used for immediate needs, such as water and food, as well as long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.

To send donations by mail:

In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to: 

Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116

Be sure to put 136825 in the Memo area.

In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:

Church of the Nazarene Canada
3657 Ponytrail Drive, Mississauga, ON | L4X 1W5

Be sure to put 136825 in the Memo area.

For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the 2021 Storm Response Fund.