TN Conference United Methodist Relief

Spelunking for Jesus

2010-09-22T15:56:00.001-05:00

At various times Saturday and Tuesday, members of Pomona UMC, Monterey First Baptist, and I were "spelunking for Jesus." Of course, we were under flooded homes, rather than flooding caverns. Homes that have been flooded often need wet floor insulation and ductwork/ductwork insulation removed. Afterword, spraying to kill/prevent mold must be done. Space is often cramped, even low enough you can't even get on your hands and knees. Tough, but rewarding work as we Serve Christ and Neighbor.

TN Tech Wesley Foundation Volunteers

2010-09-13T17:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the TN Tech Wesley Foundation Volunteers who helped out this past week with tearing out flood ruined walls, flooring, and cabinets this past week. Below is the Saturday crew, one other helped on Friday.

Cleanup in Cookeville

2010-09-09T20:14:00.000-05:00

Following August flooding, Friendship UMC, Cookeville FUMC, Oak Hill UMC, and others have responded to the needs of hundreds of persons in Putnam, Overton, and Jackson Co. that had some flooding. Russ Cain is taking a major role in working with EMA offices to do call backs to affected persons asking if they need assistance. Conference Disaster Relief Coordinator, Jason Brock, is working to coordinate outside teams and local volunteers doing cleanup. Below are pictures from cleanup on a home in Cookeville, the first of 11 we've assessed and are seeking workers to help. Nita Heilman is pictured, from St. Bethlehem UMC in the Clarksville District.

North Alabama Serves Wayne Co.

2010-09-09T20:04:00.001-05:00

A work team and chuckwagon team from the North Alabama Conference came to serve the people of Houston and Flat Gap Creek in Wayne Co. after August flooding. Pictured below is the chuckwagon who feed residents and volunteers over several days.

Trinity UMC Chuckwagon

2010-08-30T13:08:00.000-05:00

A ministry born of the 2009 tornado in Murfreesboro, the Trinity UMC Chuckwagon (Murfreesboro) has been hard at work this year. They deployed several times after the May 2010 flood, including Bordeaux and Perry Co. Last weekend they served 75 survivors and volunteers at each meal after flooding in Houston and Flat Creek in Wayne Co. The photo below is from their service to Christ and neighbor in Bordeaux as they were serving Early Response Team members from St. Mark's UMC (Murfreesboro) and other volunteers.

7th UMCOR Case Management Training

2010-08-28T10:05:00.003-05:00

7 in 2 months, 150 trained for the 17+ long term recovery groups we
are working with currently across 6 districts. The most recent one was held at Hillcrest UMC
in Nashville.
--
Sent from my mobile device

More Flooding

2010-08-20T14:19:00.001-05:00

We are following up on flooding from recent rains in Sumner, Macon, Wilson, Putnam, and Wayne Co. In Putnam, Friendship UMC has made the flood buckets we have stored there available and Cookeville 1^st was activated by the Red Cross for any potential sheltering needs. Marvin Champion has been in touch with the Wayne Co. EMA and at least 8 homes have been flooded in Houston, one completely washed away. Power and water are reported to be out. Brandon Hulette is mobilizing some additional resources to help. St. Mark’s UMC is there to help with debris removal. More as it comes.

No Overnight Recovery

2010-08-09T17:13:00.007-05:00

You DON'T recover from this overnight. More than 43 bridges were destroyed in the May 2010 flood in Hickman Co. The wind and water of this disaster affected more than 46 counties in TN, 29 in the Tennessee Conference UMC (middle TN). We estimate 3,000 families will need long term help to recover. We've already scheduled or fielded 100 volunteer teams, local and national, from May through next summer. We anticipate needed at least $1 million for our share of the recovery over the next 2 years, largely praying for TN Conference donations and UMCOR Grants to help survivors in this long, difficult journey. CLICK to download flyer.

Thanks to Great Staff!

2010-07-16T13:44:00.002-05:00

I want to thank all of the TN Conference Staff who stopped EVERYTHING, including annual conference preparation, to pitch in that first couple of weeks after the disaster. Without their help and encouragement, I would not have survived. Bettye, Vicki, Mary T., Trish, Patty, Joaquin, Brad, Tom, and Bill (along with Jonathan) . . . THANKS!

In addition I want to thank Tobie Halliburton and Brandon Hulette who have been working tirelessly the last 2 months. They have done an incredible job of fielding thousands of calls and emails as we've been working to schedule, house, and deploy teams, as well as, tons of other work. Tobie is now a full time assistant who will work with the flood recovery . . . and as time is available other support other office needs.

Through an UMCOR grant, Brandon will be working with me part time as the Flood Recovery Coordinator. We are splitting the many, many meetings, and needs at this point between us. As district, local church and community organizations get rolling full steam, he'll take over most of the day to day work, as I begin to respond to the increased desire of churches to schedule one of the following disaster trainings: Early Response Team, Connecting Neighbors (local church preparedness), and Spiritual/Emotional Care.

If you have not heard, I have been reappointed for another year as the Dir. of Mercy, Mission, and Justice, so I'll also be reconnecting with some of the committees and ministries I stepped away from this past spring in preparation for returning to the local church.

Fourth UMCOR Case Manangement Class

2010-07-09T13:24:00.002-05:00

So far we've training more than potential case managers from Methodist Churches, other denominations, and some agencies. We keep moving it around as different communities, especially community-based Long Term Recovery Committees, are ready to use them. Below is the link for the next training, July 19-20 at Bon Aqua UMC.

http://www.tnumc.org/DISASTER_RESPONSE_AND_RECOVERY/Case_Management_Training--July_19-20/

UMVIM/UMCOR Team Thank You!

2010-07-09T12:35:00.003-05:00

In addition to the dozen's of TN Conference Churches/Teams who have and are fielding volunteers in 29 or more counties affected by the May storms, we've had many our office has scheduled from across the country. Below is a quick list of teams from May through July. Not listed are the dozens more scheduled so far through March of next year. Sorry, I know we are probably missing some teams, but I'm in a hurry to get this out. THANK YOU for serving Christ and Neighbor!

SEVERAL Holston Conference Teams, Loretto UMC (TN), Dripping Springs (TX), Blacksburg UMC (Virginia Conference), Liberty UMC (Missiouri), Adams UMC (TN), Church of the Resurrection (Kansas East Conf), Pittman Park United Methodist (GA), SW District, Arkansas, Spiritual Emotional Care Team (NC Conference), Rock Creek UMC (NC), Greenville UMC (KY), Grace Avenue UMC (TX), St.Luke UMC (TN), UMC of the Palm Beaches, Oak Harbor First UMC (WA), Bethlehem UMC (VA),First UMC of Lawrenceville (GA), Wesleyan Heights UMC, (KY), First UMC - Dyersburg (Memphis Conf), Epworth UMC - SWAT Student Min (OH), Whittemore Hill UMC, (NY), Williamsons Chapel/Davidson UMC, (NC), Grace UMC (VA), Troy UMC (IL), Old North UMC (IN), Newtown UMC (PA), Mountain View UMC (SC), Bearden UMC (Holston Conference),UMC - Wentzville (MO), Tullahoma FUMC (TN), Madison Street UMC (TN), Stonebridge UMC (TX), Haymount UMC (NC), Mt. Carmel Evangelical UMC (IL), Living Word UMC (MO), New Middletown UMC (IN).

June 28 Update

2010-06-28T14:47:00.005-05:00

Since my last update, Brandon and I have been crisscrossing the Conference coordinating teams and attending meetings of the community-based Long Term Recovery Committees that are in some stage of organizing or operating. Here is the list so far, Humphreys Co. LTRC, Perry Co. LTRC, Maury Co. LTRC (1st meeting this week), Hickman Co. LTRC, Houston/Stewert/Mongomery LTRC (may become separate), Cheatham Co. LTRC, Davidson LTRC, Williamson LTRC, Sumner LTRC, Rutherford/Cannon LTRC, and Upper Cumberland LTRC (Smith/DeKalb/Jackson/Wilson/Clay/Macon/Trousdale).

The groups represent local leadership taking ownership of the disaster recovery in their communities. They will be our link to the needs and provide us the ability to fairly and effectively provide money, materials, and volunteers to help survivors in their recovery. We have dozens of churches that are providing direct leadership in these groups and dozens more who are and will be able to provide housing, food, and volunteers of their own for recovery work.

We are following up on the outstanding cleanup and misc. small jobs as these committee get ready to help us get full swing into rebuilding work. Currently, we have more than 20 teams scheduled for the month of July, some from here in the TN Conference, but most coming from outside to come and give us a boost. THANK YOU!

We've held our 3rd UMCOR Case Management training this week, with 38 attendees from a variety of long term recovery groups in Cheatham, Davidson, Williamson, Sumner, and Upper Cumberland. While some of the case managers are directly connected to United Methodist work, we are providing this excellent training to other organizations with which we are partners. The next one will be July 19-20 to resource Hickman, Perry, Humphreys Counties and others on the "Westside."

June 17 Update (reposted)

2010-06-23T19:23:00.001-05:00

We apologize that the slide presentation at Annual Conference included photos from so few communities that suffered flooding or tornadoes. Several weeks ago, we had a short window to get a joint TN/Memphis Conference presentation together and mostly only had photos on hand from one day we had a photographer visit Bellevue, West Nashville, and Carthage where we knew we had teams working. Before we publish for download, we'll be redoing the presentation to reflect that communities large and small that suffered in 28 counties, across all 7 districts. We were pleased to have UMCOR's Domestic Response head, Tom Hazelwood and UMCOR Consultant, Christy Smith to join us at Annual Conference this week.

Annual Conference absorbed a LOT of everyone's time this week, but we did still manage to coordinate a few teams and attend several Long Term Recovery meetings. A new entry to our team list is a Spiritual/Emotional Care team from N.C. The 2 person team will be with us a few weeks, visiting pastors and communities that have experienced trauma from the disaster or as a volunteer/professional serving survivors.

We still have cleanup/mold spraying in Antioch, North Nashville, and Cheatham Co., though they and many other communities are beginning to focus on getting long term recovery groups together to help facilitate rebuilding as it ramps up as we get farther into the summer. We don't have as many teams the next couple of weeks, so we're going to take this time to revise our registration process and establish some policies related to youth on teams, team size, etc. We'll also be putting together a registration packet with all of the many forms UMVIM rebuild teams should be accustomed to filling out.

UMCOR Case Management Training

2010-06-16T17:05:00.002-05:00

We're holding our 3rd UMCOR Case Management Training on June 28 -29 at Hendersonville UMC. We are looking for organized, compassionate persons who live in affected communities who will be able to commit significant time over the next 1 - 2 years to work with survivors. For more information go to the registration page.

http://www.tnumc.org/DISASTER_RESPONSE_AND_RECOVERY/Case_Management_Training--June_28-29/

Flood Briefing Flyer

2010-06-14T15:47:00.002-05:00

Download this flyer that gives a briefing on the scope of the disaster, some of the relief work details, and information on the recovery.

Download Flyer

June 13 Update

2010-06-13T09:20:00.002-05:00

There still remains some cleanup and spraying for mold that we hope will be finished up mostly within the next couple of weeks, mostly in Antioch, North Nashville, and Cheatham Co. We are beginning the transition to rebuilding, which includes for me dozens of meetings across the conference helping communities set up Long Term Recovery Committees. For communities, some are beginning to connect volunteers with rebuilding opportunities where homeowners have materials, but maybe not money for labor. As we get later into the summer, more projects will begin to match donated materials and labor as well.

Our best estimate at this time would say our communities will have 2,400 families that will not recovery without significant spiritual/emotional support, financial support, donated materials, and volunteer labor. However, nearly 40,000 families have been affected in one way or another from the flooding, wind, and tornadoes of April 30-May5 across more than 28 counties in our conference. Given what we as a Conference and UMCOR have provided in the past, this need would easily mean we would be looking at needing more than a million dollars in donations and grants over 2 years. We'll have clearer picture of that as we move forward.

We have already scheduled 30+ teams from outside our conference who have already come or are on the calendar through the Spring of 2011. Some teams have already come more than once, or made plans to send rebuild teams down the road. If I get a quiet moment at Annual Conference the next couple of days, I'll try to estimate the number of volunteer hours, homes that have been assisted, etc. However, I can give you one example. Over 5 weeks time, a Holston Conference team of around 8 persons at any given time, logged nearly 1,200 hours working on dozens of homes in Smith, DeKalb, Jackson, and Clay Counties.

I'll also be trying to capture some of the reports from churches across the conference that have gone out in Christ's name to serve their neighbors. I would suspect if we can recreate it we'll see we touched lives of many thousands of families and see 10's of thousands of hours given in the effort.

We are currently scheduling local conference teams to help meet some of the remaining cleanup needs, as well as, assigning teams already "on the board" to help with those. If your church has a team that can spray for mold, do tear out, etc., for a day, week, or weekend, please contact us and we'll get you connected. For any teams within the conference or outside, we are also working to schedule rebuilding teams over the next 18 months to 2 years. Please contact us at DisasterResponse@tnumc.com to start the process.

Current and Future Needs

2010-06-02T15:02:00.003-05:00

We've been blessed with lots of volunteers, cleaning supplies, food, hygiene, items and cash in meeting some of the immediate relief and cleanup needs. As we begin to transition to long term rebuilding and unmet needs, we'll be asking for new ways you can serve Christ and Neighbor.

Volunteers inside and from outside communities to do rebuilding, offer free counseling services, serve on local community long term recovery committees, serving at donation/distribution centers, and more are always key to the recovery process. Cash is always great as it enables us and local communities to address directly and timely unmet needs, whether it is building materials, counseling, medical care, or other urgent needs. When we get farther into the process of connecting resources and volunteers to rebuilding projects, we may have some ways persons or organizations will be able to donate building materials or household good for when people move back into their homes. Until we have a place to send them and a definitive list of what we would like to get, we ask you wait until you hear from us those needs.

If your church is looking for a weekend or week long project later in the summer, fall, spring, summer, fall . . . contact us at DisasterResponse@tnumc.com and we'll start the process of connecting dates, work projects, housing, etc. Financial donations can be sent to the Conference Treasurer to the TN Conference Disaster Fund.

May 29 Update

2010-05-29T14:03:00.004-05:00

I'm running out of gas, so this week's update will be short. Cleanup is slowing down in a number of areas, though there will be work in some areas for a few more weeks. North Nashville, Cheatham Co. and Carthage area (Smith and neighboring counties) are some of the larger pockets. We have a dozen teams from inside or outside the conference scheduled over the next 6 weeks and are begining to get fall reservations.

June will be a transitional month as cleanup finishes and rebuilding begins. Many of the traditional rebuilds we've helped with, like the Gulf Coast, won't be starting in earnest until July and August. While there may be opportunities to match volunteers with persons who can afford the materials, many of the projects that will require donated materials and volunteers will take longer to be available. Those projects must work in coordination with local communities coming together to develop the process for case management, volunteer management, project management, fund-raising, etc. before we can start sending large numbers of teams. We wish it didn't take so long, but this is the only way forward to best allocate very limited funding and volunteers to achieve the greatest level of recovery. This situation makes it difficult to schedule teams and make specific promises about work and location during this period. I promise we're doing the best we can!

We now have a good registration process for registering teams from inside the conference or outside the conference. We ask that if you want to help, please contact us before contacting a local church. Often they become overwhelmed by calls and may not be ready to coordinate groups or work. We can get teams on the calendar for a certain date and then as we move closer to that date connect teams with churches that are available to host and communities that have case, volunteer, and project management in place and a project suited to your team. Please send an initial inquiry about scheduling a team to DisasterResponse@tnumc.com.

For 4 or 5 communities that have already got their long term recovery process well on the way, we are providing our first UMCOR Case Management class this coming Thursday and Friday. We'll be planning at least one more this month and several more over the summer as more and more Long Term Recovery Organizations are ready. If you live in or near an affected area and might be interested in Case Management, check out the the information at our website http://www.tnumc.org/DISASTER_RESPONSE_AND_RECOVERY/Case_Management_Training--June_3-4/. We'll try to get more advance notice of future trainings.

A number of clergy, lay persons, and conference disaster reps have been working to move the Long Term Recovery process along in nearly a dozen geographic areas (including the counties of Perry, Humphreys, Hickman, Williamson, various parts of Davidson, Sumner, Smith, Cannon, Cheatham, Montgomery, and more). For areas that may not develop a formal Long Term Recovery Organization, we will be working with each affected district on how the Conference and District can work with other partners to address needs.

Ok, so it wasn't short, but there is so much to say!

FEMA and SBA Info

2010-05-24T18:09:00.004-05:00

I know I either posted or sent an email on this, but please encourage survivors to REGISTER and FILL OUT the SBA APPLICATION! While benefits range from nothing, to $29,900, to low interest loans, to income tax relief, you have to register to find out. The absolute deadline to get in the system will be July 6th. After that there are very, very, very few exceptions, bordering on NO exceptions.

If you receive an SBA Loan application, FILL IT OUT. If you did not receive any benefits or less than $29,900, this application is required for them to consider you for further grants. If you are accepted for a loan, it is less than 3%. If denied, you then are considered for additional grants up to a total of $29,900 depending on your loss and particular situation. If you have already been approved for $29,900 in grants, you still need to apply as you might also be eligible for a SBA loan.

If your community wants to help advocate and educate, FEMA will do a 1 1/2 training class on FEMA applications and SBA applications so you can help others through the process. Let me know and I'll help set it up. It is one of my top suggestions for first projects for Long Term Recovery Committees.

High Water in Centerville

2010-05-22T09:36:00.002-05:00

Red Cross volunteer from Bon Aqua UMC stands below a sign on Hwy. 100 to the east of downtown Centerville that shows the high water mark from the flood early this month.

May 22 Update

2010-05-22T08:12:00.003-05:00

Sorry for being so long reporting back, it's been a busy week . . . and month. I finally reached my breaking point yesterday and have to take some time off this weekend . . . does this blog count as work???

While I can't list all of the relief activities out there, here are some of the TN Conference churches and "UMC Neighbors" Early Response Teams that have been at work since last weekend: Vance Tague (Columbia District) working with Columbia 1st, Dickson 1st, Trinity (Murfreesboro) and his churches in Linden (Humphrey's Co.?); VA Conference ERT (Hickman and Humphreys Co.); St. Marks (Murf.), Loretto, KY ERT (Bordeaux in Nashville); SW Arkansas (Donelson in Nashville); Mansfield, IL ERT, Dallas, GA ERT (Cheatham Co.); Baltimore/Washington Conf. ERT (Dodson's Chapel, other assignments from Cumberland District); Pleasant View (in Cheatham Co. helping coordinate local volunteers and teams possibly from Brentwood, Lutheran Disaster Response from Spring Hill and others); Holston Conf. ERT (Smith and Jackson Co.); 2nd Columbia District food/supply drive for Hickman Co.

On the volunteer housing front, a few developments. Antioch (Nashville) and a church in the Cumberland District are hosting Americorps teams who have expressed great gratitude for our partnership with them. The General Board of Discipleship has made an empty home/office available for us to host volunteers (up to about 18). Currently, we have a small group from NECHAMA (Jewish Relief) staying there who have their own volunteers and also help coordinate Americorps teams working in Davidson and Cheatham Co. We will be looking to construct bunk beds and provide some hospitality support as we move to rebuilding later this summer. Hermitage and McKendree Village have made arrangements for an unused wing at McKendree to be available to host up to 24 volunteers. Cedar Crest Camp has made lodging available at half price for cleanup teams working the next couple of weeks before summer camping starts.

Patty Smith is working on a weekend Christian experience for children aimed at helping children in areas affected by floods. We'll be looking to offer/replicate this experience in all interested churches. I'll let her tell everyone more about that as it comes together.

We are getting around to many churches and community meetings to help connect resources with ongoing needs, but beginning to focus on how we can help communities oraganize and collaborate for the Long Term Recovery. As definitive LTR groups develop, UMCOR will be partnering to provide Case Management training, Spiritual/Emotional Care training, and grant funding.

FEMA Info and New Article

2010-05-22T08:11:00.001-05:00

Check out Tom Nankervis' postings on his blog about FEMA registration info and an article/photos from some time he spent in several communities.

http://theresponder.blogspot.com/

ERT Serves Ashland City

2010-05-14T19:50:00.006-05:00

6 members of Mansfield UMC of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference help remove flooded personal items and ruined building materials after the home had more than 7 feet of water in it last week.

Forgotten . . .

2010-05-14T19:12:00.004-05:00

Abbeville, Lake Arthur, Cameron, Welsh, Lake Charles . . . forgotten disasters in Louisiana within a forgotten disaster, Hurricane Rita, Katrina's violent sister. Forgotten or never known . . . except to Methodists, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Baptists, Mennonites, Roman Catholics, many other people of faith, and people who have loved and served in Louisiana these 5 long years since Katrina, Rita, and Wilma.

LA Conference Recovery Director, Daryl Tate, called last week offering encouragement from Bishop Hutchinson and from the Conference that our disaster, and the many communties that never made the news . . . will NOT be forgotten. As we have long traveled south to help them and others on the Gulf rebuild, they pledge that when we rebuild their 500 churches will come to serve their brothers and sisters who have lost so much.

Ashland City, Chapmansboro, Pegram, Kingston Springs, Statesville, Carthage, Centerville, Bon Aqua, Bellevue, Franklin, Lobelville, Linden, Waverly, Clarksville, Bordeaux, Antioch, Nashville and dozens of our communities travel a road of which many will never have even heard . . . but we will NOT forget and neither will many who will travel that hard road with us. Above all, God has not and will not forget, and will be there with us as we seek to mend hearts, lives, homes, and communities.

Care in Pumping Flooded Spaces

2010-05-13T16:53:00.000-05:00

Please be careful in pumping out flooded basements as I’ve been told doing so too quickly can damage your foundation and possibly lead to a collapse. Contact us at DisasterResponse@tnumc.com for a suggested pumping time chart.

ERT Teams

2010-05-13T11:05:00.004-05:00

We've have already been working with or are soon arriving, 8 Early Response Teams from our Conference and others. While much cleanup remains, it will be hard at any given time to know where, when, or how much as we have communities affected over several hundred miles. We don't have a lot of persons experienced at seeking out the homes that have been missed, so teams have to help communities in that process. Some areas will be easy to connect with work, but as we move forward there will be more detective work involved. If you have a precise estimate of when you could arrive, please register Online

Cleaning Bucket Requests

2010-05-13T10:54:00.003-05:00

We've distributed 2,800 buckets so far and have now replenished our supply with at least 1,500 on hand here at the office and in Murfreesboro. Please call if you need to pick some up. If you need a large number delivered to your church, please email us by the end of Thursday if possible, so we can work out delivery schedule for Friday and Saturday. DisasterResponse@tnumc.com or 615-695-2765

Long Term Recovery

2010-05-13T10:27:00.003-05:00

Even as many communities that flooded later are still in relief work, trying to stabilize coverage of basic needs, some are beginning to look at the long term recovery, which will likely be as long as 2 years in some areas.

For those churches and communities an important first task will be to gather local leaders from faith communities, civic organizations, and public officials to commit to working together for the long haul. Given notice, FEMA will provide someone to be there also. Same for me, as well as, before or after such a meeting. With that commitment, first tasks

Make every effort to have everyone register with FEMA and Red Cross.
Once FEMA registered, education on need to fill out SBA Loan application that is received in mail (additional grants or loans from FEMA only available after this form has been filled out
Initial assessment of needs and followup on those needs (cleanup, temp housing, etc.)
Rapid pulling together of key community partners and getting the LTR Committee/Organization in place

I'll be traveling around as best I can to share more information on this with you all, but please contact me if you have questions. Early next week we'll have down-loadable LTR manual and sample. Jason Brock, DisasterReponse@tnumc.com, 615-695-2765.

May 10 Update

2010-05-10T18:03:00.002-05:00

Lot's going on, hard to find time to share. One thing, to date 2,400 plus Cleaning Bucket Kits distributed and 2,000+ Health Kits. Some churches have delivered directly to fill our many, many requests. We have several orders pending delivery of another 1,872 buckets from UMCOR (the second shipment).

Holston Conference ERT continues to work in Carthage through 5/18. Salem UMC ERT (Indiana) is working off of Charlotte Ave. in Nashville. Liberty UMC ERT (Missouri) arrives tonight to work in Waverly. 4 other ERT's are confirmed to arrive from 5/14-5/17.

UMCOR ERT Teams Lining Up

2010-05-08T11:49:00.002-05:00

We have confirmed dates for more than a dozen UMVIM/UMCOR Early Response Teams from the West, Midwest, and Eastern U.S. Many will begin arriving Monday and the days following. As the districts help guide me, we'll try to locate them across the need, focusing on areas where other teams and volunteers are scarce. Basically, they'll need a space to sleep (or park campers/tents, access to showers if possible, and someone from the church or local community who can help get them connected with ministry.

NO PROMISES!!!!!!!!

2010-05-08T10:18:00.001-05:00

Please do not make any promises to survivors unless you are able to provide what is requested/needed immediately (you have it with you or ability to do the work needed).

UMC Chuckwagon Feeds in Centerville

2010-05-07T19:57:00.002-05:00

Trinty UMC and Blackman UMC from Murfreesboro worked together after the 2009 tornado there to feed survivors, volunteers, and public officials during the relief work. Now they are spending the weekend serving hundreds of meals in Centerville after having finished UMCOR/UMVIM ERT training 1 week ago yesterday. A Cookeville District team from Pomona UMC attended the same training and at last contact were planning to work in Nashville this weekend.

More Teams Arriving

2010-05-07T19:11:00.002-05:00

We are beginning to pick up steam with offers of UMCOR/UMVIM Early Response Teams into the middle of next and the following week. As soon as Districts/local churches have a sense of housing and can connect them to work, I will assign them. These teams are trained to need minimal support from the church other than a floor to sleep on (or place to park camper), a shower if they can, and pointing them in the right direction for work.

Today's Rundown

2010-05-07T18:35:00.003-05:00

Bishop Wills, Tom Halliburton, Christy Smith (UMCOR) and I visited Bellevue, Centerville, and Waverly today to offer encouragement and our commitment that EVERY affected individual and community is important to God and to us. We face an enormous task, but we have an enormous God, and generous love that is seen as communities, churches of all creeds, people of all colors and races pull together to respond to the pain of God's children. Continue to pray for, and serve how you can, those thousands of survivors, their families, and all those out there giving aid.

As of Saturday morning we will have delivered or had picked up over 1,500 Flood Buckets and 1,500+ Health Kits (I thought more, but they are harder to track than buckets!) We have 500 buckets on hand and 1,800 to be delivered either Saturday or Monday.

Districts and churches continue to organize and serve!

Bishop Expresses Concern and Makes Visits

2010-05-06T18:41:00.002-05:00

Bishop Wills has expressed his deep concern for the deep pain so many of our churches and communities have and are experiencing. He has already cleared an initial grant of $10,000 from UMCOR with a commitment for more as we move forward. Tonight he'll be visiting with the Cumberland District and tomorrow he'll join me and Christy Smith (UMCOR Consultant who lives in Memphis Conference) in visiting, roads allowing, a few affected churches and communities in the Nashville, Columbia, and Clarksville District.

UMCOR Buckets Due Friday

2010-05-06T18:32:00.002-05:00

The long awaited truck is due to land at a local shipping company Friday that is going to help us get it unloaded. Youth and adult volunteers will meet to help unload/load the 1,800 Flood Buckets to get them ready for pickup and delivery. James Marks from the Columbia District has been volunteering at the Conference all week in aiding with the distribution of the 600 buckets, 3,000 Health Kits and more. He is coordinating the process on Friday, along with support staff from the office. Another truck was due to be picked up from UMCOR Sager Brown today and will be delivered to Feed America First.

Churches anywhere in the Conference that would like buckets for their communities, please contact the Hotline at 615-695-2765 or disasterresponse@tnumc.com to arrange for pickup or delivery. When a multi-agency warehouse opens for all of our state to use, we will have access to a variety of donated supplies and the ability to donate requested items there.

May 6 Update

2010-05-06T18:14:00.002-05:00

Waverly reports 500 homes flooded, but basic needs are being met. Centerville still in very tough place. TN Conference delivering $1,500 worth of food tonight and other items Hap Hewgley requested. Clarksville District leaders have met and moving forward with a relief plan.

Columbia District organizing further support and Flood Buckets are due to be delivered to tomorrow. A meeting is being scheduled to do further coordinate and lead district efforts. Earl Davis is on loan from Pulaski to share his experience.

Nashville District Churches are responding in place and resourcing one another, much as is happening in the Franklin area. David Lay is coordinating some UMCOR trained volunteers in West Nashville. West Nashville UMC is coordinating with it's community association in providing for community needs. Antioch UMC and Southeast Nashville community groups have divided the labor, with Antioch UMC serving as a volunteer center and the Antioch Church of Christ serving as the donation/distribution site.

Cumberland District is meeting tonight with Paul Gardner leading the church. An UMCOR consultant who arrived at our invitation will be there as support, along with Bishop Wills.

Russ Cain is aiding relief in Carthage, with our first guest UMCOR Early Response Team from Holston. More trained teams are expressing interest in serving wherever we need the over the next several weeks. As more communities are able to stabilize and be able to provide host locations, we will connect teams as they are available.

Logging Volunteer Efforts

2010-05-06T09:16:00.002-05:00

Please try to generate or keep basic record of volunteers' names, dates, and hours worked, especially in counties with damage. The Conference can help forward those to the appropriate channels which is especially important in counties FEMA may provide funding to government relief costs. Volunteer hours are counted against matching funds local governments have to meet when getting FEMA grants for their work.

Flood Safety

2010-05-06T08:30:00.004-05:00

Working in flooded areas exposes persons to many risks of injury, disease, and death. Long pants, thick/waterproof boots, thick chemical resistant gloves, eye protection, etc. Even with precautions, very bad things can happen. One of our late clergy who was coordinating flood work in TN contracting a virus that created serious heart problems that affected him the rest of his life. Our desire to help should not override the need to do what is smart.

Flood waters and the porous personal items and construction materials they touch become contaminated with chemicals, sewage, mold, and viruses. UMCOR's recommendation is that Children, Youth, and persons with various health problems should have as little contact with flooded homes as possible, especially as time goes by and the risk of mold and disease increase. If there are ways to include persons who shouldn't be there in fund raising, collecting items that have been requested, and getting them ready to help with rebuilding months down the road, that is the best, safest option.

UMCOR ERT's Line Up

2010-05-05T17:30:00.004-05:00

As we have need, housing, and someone to coordinate in local communities, we are partnering the aid of a few trained TN UMCOR Early Response Teams and some who we've connected to through United Methodist Volunteers in Mission, SEJ. Holston Conference team will arrive in Carthage on Thursday, and a West Ohio team in Nashville on Friday. We have 4 or 5 other teams looking at possible trips next week. WONDERFUL to have such good neighbors.

Church Updates

2010-05-05T17:05:00.002-05:00

While most communities at least have most utility, road, and basic services restored. Hickman Co., in particular the Centerville community and areas nearby are still isolated and except for having bottled water are in a very tough situation with very few ways to or from. We are following up to see what other efforts may soon alleviate the need and considering what ways we might help.

Waverly's community was hit hard and early, and was also cut off because of flooding and road damage. We've not had a report today.

Ashland City, Donelson, Bellevue, and numerous other communities flooded by the Cumberland or Harpeth still have many areas that are still flooded.

Buckets and Kits

2010-05-05T16:58:00.002-05:00

Thanks to N. GA for their shipment of 350 Cleaning Buckets/other cleaning and health supplies and the N. AL Conference for 1500+ Health Kits, toilet paper, etc. UMCOR has 2 shipments of buckets coming, so we should be covered with those by the weekend. Thank you to Feed America First and Midwest Transportation for providing dock service and warehousing for buckets!

Transportation Needs Urgent

2010-05-05T14:16:00.002-05:00

15' foot box Truck not running, stranded at Bellevue. Any mechanics give a hand? Likely fuel pump failure or contaminated fuel. Several attempts to rent box truck's locally failed.

When we receive the buckets from Sager Brown, it would help if we had trucks with big trailers, horse trailer, flat, enclosed, whatever. 615-695-2765

Red Cross Shelter Numbers

2010-05-05T12:29:00.001-05:00

Currently 500 people across the whole state are staying in shelters. Number going down.

FEMA Declarations Begin

2010-05-05T12:03:00.003-05:00

While more counties will likely be declared, these have been declared by FEMA: Cheatham, Davidson, Hickman, and Williamson Counties. Soon FEMA will open information centers for registration and explanation. Persons will also be able to register by phone or online. http://www.disasterassistance.gov/daip_en.portal

Apply by Phone:
1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

1 (800) 462-7585 (TTY)
for people with speech or hearing disabilities

Light Our Way

2010-05-04T20:35:00.003-05:00

Follow this link to download a helpful booklet, Light Our Way: A Guide for Spiritual Care in Times of Disaster. It give some basic disaster education, and then focuses on some very helpful information in working with survivors and servants to the survivors. I've been distributing a few of the copies I have where possible and have ordered more, but you can download it also.

http://www.nvoad.org/Portals/0/Light_Our_Way_LINKS.pdf

May 4

2010-05-04T20:11:00.003-05:00

Including Monday, today, and to be done Wednesday, we will have delivered or had picked up 600+ Cleaning buckets and 3,000 Health Kits to local churches to distribute in Christ's name . . . Antioch, Hillcrest, Bellevue, Bon Aqua, Joelton, New Bethel, Clarksville District, Palmyra, Dickson (to be shared with Waverly, Kingston Springs, Cumberland District), 61 st Ave., and Bethlehem (Franklin). We hope to have more from UMCOR and N.C. tomorrow or Thursday.

Many churches and communities have been able to charge full into serving their affected parishes. Others may need more support from the District and Conference. Please be patient as we try to spread the few with disaster leadership experience around.

A general rule of thumb, the length the emergency phase lasts, about 4 days in our case, the relief phase (stabilizing community and restoring basic services, food, shelter, medical care) will last 10 times that (40 days). The Recovery is 10 times that (400+days). We've started a long, difficult journey, but our God has walked with his people along many such journeys and does still today.

Church Damage Updates

2010-05-04T20:08:00.002-05:00

While several churches across several districts reported flooding in basement areas or parts of their buildings, 2 churches have reported heavier flooding, Cedar Valley (Columbia District) and Statesville (Cookeville District).

Debris Sorting

2010-05-04T14:46:00.003-05:00

See our cleanup guide below, but each community may have different requirements for flood debris. This example is from Davidson Co. of how to sort items at the roadside. If not sorted some material may not be picked up.

1. White goods and metals (appliances, etc.)
2. Construction and demolition debris (lumber, windows, etc.)
3. Vegetation (brush, limbs and all other yard waste)
4. Household trash and garbage (including carpet)

NO CLOTHING

2010-05-04T14:08:00.002-05:00

In general, collection or donation of used clothing is discouraged because of the enormous amounts, varied quality/sizes, and inability to store and distribute. If you have received any collections, find local clothing ministries to donate them to.

Once displaced persons are in a longer term housing situation, then clothing because a larger concern. One must have a home and a closet before they fill them.

Water Recedes, Hard, Chaotic Work Begins

2010-05-04T11:40:00.002-05:00

So many things I need to share and do, but for now just a request for prayer for all and patience as this difficult process moves forward.

Basically, we are still under Emergency conditions in which emergency personnel are still seeking to restore basic community safety and secure affected neighborhoods. Red Cross and several agencies are still working to cover basic shelter, food, and medical needs. Cleanup is still primarily Neighbor to Neighbor, church to direct community.

Now that rescues are ending, the search for any who perished will begin. Emergency personnel will begin securing hazards in homes and neighborhoods (electric, gas, etc.).

Please collect share the every changing information you hear from your local area with your church members and local community, flyers handed with a smile and the love of Christ is a powerful gift.

Offers of specially trained UMCOR Early Response Teams are coming in and we are making arrangements for some of them to work in more secure areas by the end of the week.

Pray, pray, pray!

Nurses for Shelters

2010-05-03T19:07:00.001-05:00

This came from earlier today, not sure if still needed. American Red Cross requested nurses for shelter support. Contact Nancy at 615-405-2433.

May 3 Recap

2010-05-03T19:06:00.007-05:00

Flooding continues especially along the Cumberland. Also, Ashland City earlier had an evacuation as flood gates were released upstream of them. Centerville, Erin, Nashville, and other communities have had interruption of water or water restrictions. Several churches have reported some flooding damage, though many in basement areas. Please continue to pray for those affected and the many emergency and relief personnel responding.

In some places where water and threats have receded, survivors and family/church members are beginning to do some removal. However, few groups at this time can take general volunteers for cleanup. We've requested trained teams and will seek to connect them first. As the situation stabilizes and our ability to coordinate increases we will request additional volunteers. For churches and families in affected areas, please check this general guide in helping do cleanup after a flood Cleanup Tips

A central warehouse/distribution center is in the process of being set up by TEMA and volunteer agencies. They already have commercial commitment for enormous amounts of bottled water. When they request specific donations, we will pass those along. We will gladly accept completed cleaning/flood buckets (http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/flood-bucket/ at the Conference Office.

We've distributed 200 buckets and 1,100 Health Kits to churches in Nashville, Bellevue, and soon in Centerville (via Bon Aqua UMC) per their requests. We will attempt deliveries to the Clarksville District tomorrow. N. Georgia Conference will deliver 350 tomorrow and we are arranging, but have no arrival info for, 1,800 from UMCOR.

We are continuing to assess the situation, organize leaders, and prepare the way for more and more opportunities for people to respond. Please be patient and pray, even as further damage continues.

If your church has suffered significant damage or flooding, please make sure the pastor contacts their District Supt. If you know of areas of significant flooding of many homes, please email me at disasterresponse@tnumc.com.

Transportation Needs

2010-05-03T15:49:00.002-05:00

We have a 15' box truck to use locally (though it needs quick oil change and tune up) and a Truck/16' trailer. However, it would help to have some other options. If you have a connection with a loaner or reasonable rental of a 15-24' foot box truck and/or folks with truck/trailer who could help make deliveries, please let me know. JBrock@tnumc.com

Survivors Consider Registering with Red Cross

2010-05-03T13:27:00.003-05:00

Even persons who do not stay in shelters, should consider registering with the Red Cross. This helps in the overall assessment of needs, as they share overall data with TEMA, FEMA, and other organizations. Even if not in a shelter, survivors may be able to receive certain short term benefits. Please contact you local chapter or shelter for information.

Cleaning Up After a Flood

2010-05-03T12:01:00.002-05:00

For clean up tips after the flood, please go to: http://www.tnumc.org/DISASTER_RESPONSE_AND_RECOVERY/Cleanup_Tips/

UMCOR Buckets

2010-05-03T11:48:00.001-05:00

Arranging Shipment of 1,800 Buckets from UMCOR. Feed America First in Murfreesboro kindly provided place for us to unload them as they have warehouse and loading dock.

Buckets

2010-05-03T10:43:00.001-05:00

North Georgia is sending 350 Buckets, and UMCOR ready to send more as needed.

May 3 10 AM

2010-05-03T10:10:00.003-05:00

We are continuing to gather information, making connections, and set up our ability to connect volunteers as the weeks go on. Currently, the first groups we will be using, except for churches in impacted areas, will be trained UMCOR Early Response Teams from within the conference and neighboring conferences. In many locations, conditions are not safe for survivors or volunteers to work.

Currently, NO in-kind donations are being requested. When we hear of the request and the ability of someone to receive them in various parts of the conference, we will let you know. Flood/Cleaning Buckets would be great, as they are easy to store and ship. We are already trying to connect the 250 we have with Centerville, Antioch, and others as connections and need are made.

For those helping their neighbors clean up from floods, we will soon have a 6 page guide to help you know what to keep, throw away, and how to sort. We'll post that here.

May 2, AM Update

2010-05-02T06:34:00.003-05:00

Threat of tornadoes and more flooding continue through the day. Please stay off the roads as much as possible, take appropriate precautions, and keep tuned to weather alerts. Please keep those who've suffered loss of life and/or property and emergency personnel in your prayers today.

On the ground assessment will likely begin tomorrow morning, though I am already receiving some preliminary reports from local churches. Once public safety has been restored and assessment begun, we will work with with local churches on cleanup and if needed access trained UMCOR Early Response Teams in the conference and neighboring conferences.

We have approximately 250 Flood/Cleanup buckets on hand and can request additional ones from North Alabama and/or UMCOR if needed. We have several thousand Health/Hygiene Kits available as well. If you would like to have a stock of either for local response, please send me an email. UMCOR stands ready to aid us, as always, with an emergency grant and technical support.

If your church has suffered significant damage or flooding, please make sure the pastor contacts their District Supt. If you know of areas of significant flooding of many homes, please email me at JBrock@tnumc.com. If you have an urgent need to reach me, please call the Disaster Hotline, 615-695-2765.

May 1 Update

2010-05-01T21:00:00.001-05:00

Much of the TN Conference has experienced heavy rain and some wind damage . More severe storms and heavy rain are called for through Sunday afternoon. Please take appropriate precautions and stay tuned to weather alerts.

When the threat of additional flooding and wind damage has passed, assessment by public officials and volunteer agencies will give us a picture of how our many communities have been affected and help us begin to organize our response.

If your church has suffered significant damage or flooding, please make sure the pastor contacts their District Supt. If you know of areas of significant flooding of many homes, please email me at JBrock@tnumc.com

Recovery Update

2009-05-27T10:08:00.002-05:00

At a recent meeting of state level volunteer groups and agencies, very few long term needs are surfacing in Murfreesboro from the April tornado. We will continue to follow up with local churches and agencies and provide aid as needed. After the July 4th holiday, we may try to draw together some local churches and agencies to discuss current needs, as well as, consider organizing for future events.

Murfreesboro Cleanup

2009-04-19T18:55:00.001-05:00

Recovery Has Only Just Begun

2009-04-19T08:23:00.002-05:00

The disaster is over, much of the volunteer debris removal will be wrapping up this week, news coverage is moving on . . . but the recovery has only just begun. In the next couple of weeks, community organizations/churches and the members of VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) will continue providing aid. Also, they will begin looking at what unmet needs remain, including those of the uninsured or underinsured. Even for the insured, they will have need of spiritual/emotional care and perhaps advocacy in working with insurance companies.

The wounds of those who've lost love ones, lost homes, lost pets, or lost a sense of security will not quickly heal. Please continue to keep Murfreesboro in your prayers and those partners who will continue to work to bring healing.

Saturday Update

2009-04-18T06:33:00.004-05:00

Between 30 and 100 folks have been working daily in tree/debris removal since Saturday. We've filled out the crew for today with a few folks from Loretto UMC and from Nolensville UMC. We hope to finish out the neighborhood St. Mark's and Co. have been working all week. Trinity UMC of Murfreesboro is hauling out their trailer again to grill up some really good lunch. St. Mark's will be available to do periodic followup on small jobs that got missed around town.

We had been parking for days in front of one badly damaged house and didn't realize until a few days ago a Methodist family lived there. As we began working behind their house, one of the owners remarked "You just don't know how much it means for me to see that cross and flame here."

Tale of Two Dogwoods

2009-04-15T19:24:00.006-05:00

Two dogwoods, both survivors. One small and planted by the river in loving memory, one large, having lived for years shadowed by cedars, miles from the first. Both survived with barely a mark, when most every tree and home around will never be the same. Both dogwoods blooming, each now the only tree in each's yard. The survival of the first brought a shout of joy from the one who loving planted, along with many gracious thank you's to volunteers. The survival of the second brought words of wonder, a tree that rarely bloomed, now in full flower, standing alone in the full light.

Saturday Cleanup Cancelled

2009-04-14T19:09:00.003-05:00

The City of Murfreesboro has canceled the cleanup day for Saturday, April 18, citing safety concerns with large equipment likely to still be running in affected communities. If it is rescheduled, we will pass that information on.

In addition, the outpouring of local volunteers seems to have cleared up most of the general debris, while specialized teams are making very quick progress clearing out downed trees. Many of the uninhabitable homes will need contracted labor to be able to do demolition. For now, it will likely be easier to deploy teams from local Murfreesboro churches to respond to requests that pop up.

Ways to Help

2009-04-14T19:00:00.001-05:00

Foremost, prayer.

Cash Donations--We have reserve disaster funds and UMCOR Emergency funds available to use immediately and have made those available. Donations to the Conference Disaster Fund will help with recovery and relief as we go forward. Gifts can be made out to your local church, designated for the TN Conference Disaster Fund and they will be passed along. You can also give online at http://www.tnumc.org/custpage.cfm/frm/30213/sec_id/30213. Conference Advance #104.

Other donations--at this time, only 2nd Harvest is available for material donations and has set up bins at some Kroger stores. Relief organizations have on hand food and clothing (clean, sorted) to provide for immediate needs. See here for the latest other ways to donate http://tennessean.com/article/20090411/NEWS01/904110336

Volunteers--at this time no additional volunteers are needed.

Ongoing Family/Church Readiness--Use resources from FEMA or Red Cross on families having disaster plan and emergency kit. Contact Jason Brock at the TN Conference Office to find out more about developing a Disaster Readiness Plan for your local church. JBrock@tnumc.org, 615-329-1177.

Readiness in Your Community--please consider for the future supporting your local Red Cross with funds and volunteers, as we depend on them being strong and organized for early relief. If you want to be available as a shelter, they can evaluate your building and provide insurance/resources if activated. Help make your local food, clothing, and general help agencies strong, as they will be helpful partners if disaster strikes your community.

Tuesday Update

2009-04-14T08:16:00.002-05:00

A few experienced cutters from Mt. Juliet are joining St. Mark's to continue cutting. We're meeting with some of the area pastors and Stephen's ministers to begin looking at what to expect over the next couple of weeks and months. We're especially going to begin looking at the special emotional and spiritual care issues faced by survivors, relief/emergency workers, as well as, others not directly affected by the storms.

See post below info for the city cleanup day being organized by the City of Murfreesboro and be able to tell Jason by Wednesday how many you can bring on Saturday and what they can do. We hope to have more concrete details by Wed. night.

Saturday Cleanup Info

2009-04-13T11:29:00.003-05:00

The City of Murfreesboro is in the processing of organizing a cleanup day for Saturday. Local churches are coordinating efforts with the Rutherford County EMA office and other relief agencies. If we have church groups with a leader and a church bus, we are looking at coordinating Methodist teams from outside Murfreesboro. We don't know yet how many we can accommodate, but if we can stage at one location, it will be easier to get them registered through one church. We will likely stage at Murfreesboro 1st UMC, but we will confirm details later.

Please provide a team leader contact, what your whole group can do (feeding ministry, gloves/trash bag crew, or experienced chainsaw workers), and how many you would likely be able to bring. We can only take groups that can pack into their own church bus, as neighborhoods cannot handle tons of traffic. Jason Brock, JBrock@tnumc.org; the city may not be able to accommodate everyone who wants to helps, so it's first come, first serve. We should be able to confirm by Wednesday evening or Thursday morning how many we can use.

Early Response Team Training, May 16

2009-04-13T07:56:00.002-05:00

Due to the recent damage in Murfreesboro, we've decided to hold our UMCOR Early Response Team Training in Murfreesboro, exact location TBA. This training is specifically designed for those who would be part of organized and equipped teams to do tarping, cutting, and general debris removal.

We are especially wanting churches to indentify and recruit persons to come to this training who could make a commitment to being a Team Leader, as we often have far more volunteers than we can use because we have no one to direct them. After this training, we will be available to schedule trainings for a local church or group of churches willing to work together to have an organized team. To be contacted with more detailed information on training, please contact Jason Brock at JBrock@tnumc.org.

You are Frontline in Response

2009-04-13T07:44:00.003-05:00

When disasters strike your community . . . the first few days most outside help often cannot and should not be there. Neighbor to neighbor, church member to church member, community members to community members become the earliest response that happens. Once rescue efforts have completed and public safety has been restored, more aid from outside can happen. Families and communities can easily be cut off from the outside world for days due to trees, power lines, flooding, etc. and often must take care of there own until that changes.

Does your family have an emergency plan? Does your church know how it will care for its members, facility, and community if disaster strikes? If not contact Jason Brock at JBrock@tnumc.org and our Conference Disaster Ministry will seek to provide you with training, consultation, and resources to help you be Ready.

Possible Weekend Cleanup, April 18-19

2009-04-13T07:33:00.004-05:00

The last 2 storms in Sumner County led to community-wide cleanup the weekend following the storm for general purpose volunteers. The response was so great that some groups were eventually turned away . . . which is a good thing. We will be trying to see if a similar effort will be organized in Murfreesboro and let you know how to be a part of it.

Debris Removal Continues

2009-04-12T20:17:00.002-05:00

St. Mark's Early Response Teams were hard at work clearing debris again today, their numbers bolstered by a few members from local Murfreesboro churches. Assessment today would indicate much of the major tree/limb removal could be completed by the end of the weekend.

Some experienced crews from Winchester and Tullahoma will be working with them tomorrow and will likely be all that can safely and effectively be used. An official Early Response Team has been invited from the Memphis Conference to provide some help later this week.

Easter Sunday Update

2009-04-12T07:17:00.003-05:00

Even as Easter Services will lift spirits, our teams will also put in time lifting debris, cutting trees, and serving meals. Paul Givens, Murfreesboro District Disaster Coordinator, expects they will wrap up cutting in one neighborhood today and then assess the remaining need in the 3 other major impact areas. Based on that assessment, we will decide if or when we call in 3 more teams we have on standby. We've had offer of help from many of our sister conferences in the Southeastern Jurisdiction if or when they are needed. It's good to have such great neighbors!

Jason Brock, Conference Disaster Coordinator, will be continuing to follow up with the District Office and pastors in the affected area, especially focusing on the unique spiritual and emotional needs the community will face in the next 3 to 9 months. Also important, will be having the local churches connected to whatever community long term recovery effort develops, as well as, filling in the gaps of more immediate unmet needs.

City of Murfreesboro has an excellent situation report and map of tornados path http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/

Trinity Serves Food

2009-04-11T14:07:00.002-05:00

Rev. Eddie Smotherman of Trinty UMC in Murfreesboro reports 5-person team working in coordination with St. Mark's Early Response Team to provide meals to survivors and relief workers today and tomorrow.

UMCOR Spiritual Care Resources

2009-04-10T19:40:00.001-05:00

UMCOR provides some helpful spiritual/emotional guides to disaster trauma, recovery, and care for children/teens. http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/resources/spiritualcare/

Comfort of Christ

2009-04-10T19:33:00.001-05:00

Murfreesboro 1st UMC offered the comfort of Christ as survivors arrived on their doorstep. They were offered a warm, dry space out of the wind and some food to eat.

Trained Crews Begin Work

2009-04-10T19:21:00.003-05:00

3 Methodist Early Response Teams will be at work cutting trees this weekend where emergency personnel have finished their work of search/rescue and clearing hazards. Depending on the need and the local ability to cut and tarp, we can call on other official and equipped Early Response Teams.

Update 6 pm

2009-04-10T17:58:00.003-05:00

District Superintendents and/or District Coordinators have been contacted for updates. As of the moment, churches are reporting safe members and no major church damage. It will take time for churches to know for sure and report, especially in areas with severe damage, power outages, or are in remote locations. It will take several days for the scope of damage to be known, though there is at least minor damage in most districts.

Emergency grants have been made available to the Districts in case there are immediate needs they can provide through local churches in affected areas.

District Office contact information: http://www.tnumc.org/DISTRICT_OFFICES/
Rev. Jason Brock, JBrock@tnumc.org, 615-329-1177

Storm Info

2009-04-10T13:15:00.004-05:00

We have wind damage in several places across the conference and potentially very severe damage in some areas. Please be sure your pastor or church leaders pass along any information to the District Office on damage to churches and/or community. The first few days after a disaster are reserved for official personnel (police, fire, etc.) for search/rescue and restoration of basic safety. The Red Cross, Salvation Army, and others have the major responsibility to provide shelter and food.

As the community assesses its damage, then, specially trained volunteers would be the first let in to do any debris removal or tarping beyond the "neighbor to neighbor" aid that has been occurring. A week or two after the disaster, more general cleanup volunteers might be needed. In most cases, cash donations are the easiest for district and local response to use for immediate needs, which change on an hourly basis. The Conference Disaster Response Team will make some emergency funds available immediately for affected districts to provide for unmet needs.

You can find contact information for the district offices at http://www.tnumc.org/DISTRICT_OFFICES/. If you have an urgent need and cannot reach your District Supt., until Monday you can reach Rev. Jason Brock, Conference Disaster Coordinator at 615-293-8594. On Monday please call 615-329-1177 before calling the mobile number. Periodically, he will check messages at JBrock@tnumc.org.

Updated information on the disaster, needs, and contact information will be posted at http://tnumcrelief.blogspot.com/

Please keep these many persons and communities in your prayers this Easter weekend.

Cleanup Continues in KY

2009-03-11T13:38:00.001-05:00

We’ve had 8 teams go at least once to help clear trees and debris in TN and KY following the ice storm. Most recently we’ve had teams go from St. Marks (Murfreesboro), Lynchburg 1st, and Mt. Zion (Cunningham). Teams can come for a few days or for several.

Please contact the Memphis Conference to schedule a team sometime in the next couple of months as they seek to cleanup the unbelievable number of trees and limbs that fell. 1-877-552-7337. Also, if you have been or schedule a team, please contact me so we can celebrate together how many teams have served in the name of Christ from the TN Conference.

Jason Brock
Dir. Mercy, Mission, and Justice
JBrock@tnumc.org

Servants of Christ Needed for Team

2009-02-11T10:55:00.001-06:00

Guy Looney will be leading a team to Paducah next week to aid in cutting trees, clearing debris, and providing spiritual/emotional care to those suffering from the Ice Storm that affected nearly half a million people.

Needed are a few persons experienced with chainsaws, general volunteers, cook(s), and Stephen's Ministers. The cost of food and gas will be covered by the TN Conference Disaster Fund and the Conference truck/trailer will be going. Paducah has space for groups to sleep and a kitchen where they can prepare their meals.

The team will leave from Nashville either Sunday night or Monday morning, work Monday thru Wednesday and return that evening. If you are able to serve or need further information, contact Guy Looney at 615-330-0044.

Grace and peace, Rev. Jason Brock, Dir. Mercy, Mission, and Justice--JBrock@tnumc.org

Memphis Conference Volunteer Information

2009-02-10T11:33:00.001-06:00

New information and new phone number.

The latest information from the Memphis Conference indicates they will be involved in tree/limb removal for months to come. Once roads, driveways, and access to electrical service are cleared, many trees and limbs will remain scattered across yards and farms in Western, KY and northern parts of West TN.

Specially trained UMVIM Early Response Teams with heavy equipment are being requested from across the Southeastern Jurisdiction to work in some of the hardest hit areas and deal with the larger trees. Other church or district groups that can do lighter removal will be needed over the next several months. Stephen’s ministers could also be utilized as a part of a group to be listeners to survivors as they provide spiritual and emotional care.

Beginning Monday, February 16, all offers to volunteer through the Memphis Conference will be routed through one toll free number, 877-552-7337. Until Friday, please use 1-866-966-7161. Please contact me with questions, as well as, let me know dates you’ve scheduled. If you are willing to partner with another church or individual who wants to serve, we’d love to connect churches in serving Christ and neighbor.

Lee Stevenson, Mt. Zion UMC, has been invited to bring a team to Webb Memorial UMC in Clay County, KY Feb. 22-24. He may be able to have others join his group. Contact him at 931-237-2355 for more information.

Memphis Conference Requests Volunteers

2009-02-09T11:51:00.001-06:00

On a limited basis, the Memphis Conference is available to receive local church volunteer groups to help in NW Tennessee and Western Kentucky. Many of the requests are to remove trees and/or branches from driveways and yards. Not everyone needs a chainsaw and only persons with experience using one should be involved in cutting. One person to cut, several to drag, push, and pull, along with others to talk and pray with residents makes for a great team. If persons on your team can help provide some of your own meals and/or help those churches hosting volunteers, that would be a valuable service. Licensed electricians may be able to help reset boxes on homes so power can be restored. These opportunities subject to various local codes.

Due to power, plumbing, and space issues in some of the churches/communities, their ability to receive volunteers on certain dates will vary. They estimate at least a couple weeks of opportunity for needing volunteers. There are immediate openings for 2-3 teams of 7-10 on Thursday and Friday working out of Goshen UMC in Murray, KY. If you feel called and able to send a group over the next several weeks, please contact the Memphis Conference Disaster Call Center at 1-866-966-7161. They will take your information and forward to those coordinating groups in the three affected Districts. They will call you back to see let you know if they can receive you. Be ready to say when you can come, how many you can bring, and what you can do. If you schedule your group, please let me know so we can keep you in prayer and perhaps connect you with individual volunteers who may not have a team of their own. Please feel free to email or call me with questions you may have.

Currently, the Kentucky Conference is only receiving specially trained UMVIM Early Response Teams. We’ll send out an update if that changes.

Grace and Peace

Rev. Jason Brock 615-329-1177
Mercy, Mission, and Justice 615-293-8594 (mobile)
Disaster Response Coordinator 615-329-0884 (fax)
TN Conference United Methodist Church JBrock@tnumc.org
304 S. Perimeter Park Dr., Suite 1
Nashville, TN 37211

Rebuilding Team Contact Info, Aug. 21

2008-08-30T09:48:00.001-05:00

THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO PROJECTS NEEDING VOLUNTEER GROUPS

Three community-based, ecumenical Long Term Recovery Organizations (LTRO) have formed to address the unmet needs that remain since the Feb. 2008 tornadoes. Below is the contact information for teams wanting to schedule a team. Currently, all teams will be scheduled directly with these LTRO's. Contact information and current needs will be posted periodically on this blog, so check back regularly. Also, if you want to be contacted by email of new information, send request to JBrock@tnumc.org

Thank you for being such a great Neighbor!

LTR of Macon County--http://www.ltrmc.org/

Recovery Office, 615-666-9714
Currently scheduling rebuilding teams

Sumner/Trousdale LTR

Not currently scheduling rebuilding teams

Williamson/Hickman LTR

Volunteer Call Number, 615-417-8063
Currently only hosting teams for small, immediate needs, call for current opportunities

If your group is Methodist and you schedule a team with one of these organizations, please contact the TN Conference Disaster Response and Recovery Coordinator, Rev. Jason Brock at JBrock@tnumc.org so he knows you are coming.

LTR Macon Co., Letter to Editor

2008-08-21T14:16:00.001-05:00

We in the Long Term Recovery of Macon County (LTRMC) are aware that some misinformation and concerns have been circulating recently. The general public's current perception appears to be that there has been a VAST amount of money donated and that ALL donations and monies generated for the tornado survivors have come to and and are being held by the LTRMC. This perception is not based on facts.

Not all recovery funds and services have come to or through the LTRMC. All monies donated to tornado survivors through the 3 local banks have remained at those banks. Although the 3 banks have participated in the LTRMC organization since its inception, the banks have continued to use their own process for disseminating the monies themselves. The LTRMC has had no involvement in how much money was donated to the banks, how the monies were distributed, or how much money is left. The LTRMC has received no monies from any of the banks to date. We are grateful that all 3 local banks have recently decided to meet with the LTRMC as needs are confirmed to consider providing funds on a case-by-case basis.

The Jett Williams Fund monies gained from the Jett Williams Concert were set up for management by the Jett Williams Fund which planned to have no connection with the LTRMC. However, they have recently decided to make these funds available to the LTRMC on a case-by-case basis. The first portion of these monies was used for a case this past week.

Most of the funds that have come to the LTRMC have mostly been from churches, some organizations, and grants. The LTRMC has received start-up grants and donations which were specifically for the operation of the organization (electric and phone bills, office supplies, etc.) Since everyone working with the LTRMC is a volunteer, there are no salary or wage expenses. Therefore, all other monies received by the LTRMC have gone and will go directly for the benefit of the tornado families.

The LTRMC uses the following financial processes. The signature of more than one officer is required for each LTRMC expenditure. All case expenditures must be committee approved and then confirmed by the LTRMC organizational body. Copies of all minutes are regularly sent to LTRMC members. Financial actions are presented in writing to the LTRMC membership for approval. The LTRMC truly tries to make the dollars they have been given stretch by referring some needs to other organizations that can provide, using volunteered labor when possible rather than paying for labor, and utilizing donated or discounted goods and services when available.

The LTRMC was designed to assist families with their remaining needs AFTER insurance, FEMA, Red Cross, and the family's resources were utilized. The LTRMC has expected that most of its efforts would be in assisting the estimated 40-70 households with the least resources or ability to recover without assistance.

The LTRMC determined that the primary focus of the organization should be to restore affected citizens to a habitable home comparable to the one they had before the disaster as much as funds and resources permit. Following the disaster many families have understandably chosen to build larger and sturdier homes with upgraded furnishings and appliances than the homes or mobile homes they had before the tornado. The LTRMC in its decisions has to focus its efforts on trying to restore essential living space and essential furnishings and fixtures not exceeding those in the previous home given the limited funds and resources available.

The LTRMC was organized and established between Feb. 25 and March 25. In the 27 weeks since the tornado, the LTRMC volunteers have had 24 meetings in an effort to provide various benefits to the disaster victims.

More than 25 families beginning at the end of March have been provided a variety of free labor by the LTRMC's coordination of over 300 volunteers from approximately 20 organizations providing a few thousand hours of service. More than $50,000 in vouchers to assist 20 families with rebuilding efforts has already been approved through the funding coordination of the LTRMC. A number of cases are currently being processed for assistance by the LTRMC. Other assistance, referrals, and coordination too numerous to mention have been provided by the LTRMC in the last 4-5 months.

As the LTRMC has worked with more and more tired and frustrated victims who are reaching the end of their resources and as new situations and needs have been encountered that were not anticipated when the original guidelines for the organization were formed, it has become apparent that some of the original rather general guidelines recommended to the LTRMC and adopted by the organization need to be clarified and adjusted. Some things need to be more specific yet flexible enough to provide the assistance needed for each individual case. Any of these changes made must be the result of a group effort and, when approved, must be communicated to all staff. This is no different than any other organization. You live and learn and adjust.

The LTRMC has been and will be doing its best to help everyone it can as quickly as it can within the resources that it has. Everyone working with the LTRMC DOES CARE and does what he/she can to help. (If we didn't care, we wouldn't be volunteering our time!)

LTRMC Executive Committee

LTR Macon Co., Outline of Organization

2008-08-21T14:13:00.002-05:00

LONG-TERM RECOVERY OF MACON COUNTY

Following the February 5, 2008 tornado which devastated Macon County, TN from one corner to the other, it was quickly evident that the 557 households affected would need coordinated assistance available in order to adequately recover.

The LTRMC was born when over 60 concerned representatives from the community and numerous organizations (half from out-of-state) met on February 25, 2008 to begin an organized long-term local response to the disaster.

The Goals

The Long-Term Recovery of Macon County was formed “to provide cost effective and coordinated delivery of services to ensure that ALL victims receive the maximum amount of assistance in a timely and efficient manner” having equal access to all available resources from one centralized delivery system.

It was determined that the primary focus of the organization should be to restore affected citizens to a home comparable to the one they had before the disaster as much as funds and resources permit.

The intent of the LTRMC is to not only provide services throughout this long-term recovery process but to have in place a functioning recovery organization should another local disaster occur in the future.

The Organization

This recovery organization is composed entirely of volunteers representing over 60 governmental agencies, not-for-profit agencies, community civic and service groups, religious and educational groups, and individual citizens. It functions independently from any participating group and is exclusively for the benefit of the community.

The LTRMC is a non-profit organization which is currently utilizing the local Macon Helps organization as its 501 (C)(3) tax exempt fiscal agent. State and federal EIN numbers have been gained. The organization has received recent approval for incorporation by the state, is registered with the Macon County Register of Deeds, and is accepting nominations for its board of directors.

The officers are: Terry Gillim, President; Vickie Henderson, Vice-President; Rita Meador, Secretary; Ralph Wheaton, Treasurer; Ed Swanson, Volunteer Coordinator; Russell Cain, Case Manager Coordinator; and Mark Templeton, Unmet Needs Coordinator.

The LTRMC office is located at 668 Highway 52 ByPass West (in the old State Farm office building between Ben Bray Real Estate and Auction and the Lafayette Church of God). Mail is received through P. O. Box 715, Lafayette TN 37083. The organization can be contacted by calling 615-666-9714. Since office volunteers are in short supply, an answering machine may take your name, number, and reason for calling, and your call will be returned as promptly as possible. Contact can also be made by e-mail at LTRMC@nctc.com. To find out more about the organization, access the website at www.LTRMC.org.

Funding

100% of the LTRMC funding is used for providing help to the tornado victims. Funding to assist disaster affected citizens comes primarily from donations with additional funding coming from community fundraising events, grants, and other located sources. Funds to run the organization itself (rent, utilities, office supplies, etc.) have come from donations and grants.

Funds are maintained by the LTRMC treasurer; tax exempt funds are initially maintained by the Macon Helps representative. No funds can be accessed or utilized without two authorized signatures, and all expenditures must ultimately be approved by the organization.

The Community Foundation of Middle TN, the TN Baptist Convention, the Bledsoe Baptist Association, the Lutheran Disaster Services, United Methodist Committee on Relief, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, the Lafayette Assembly of God, Immanuel Baptist Church, The TN Conference of United Methodists, the Lafayette United Methodist Church, the LUMC Welch Family Disaster Fund, and the TN Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, and other individuals have all contributed substantially. The local Lions Club and the Xi Gamma Pi chapter of Beta Sigma Phi have also provided needed financial support. The Jett Williams Fund and the donations made through the local banks may also be available to the LTRMC as needs arise.

Assistance

The first step for victims to gain assistance is to contact the LTRMC. Trained case management is in place to assist the victims in assessing their needs and goals and to help connect available resources with those needs.

The case managers utilize FEMA’s CAN system to assure that each disaster claim is genuine, to assure that there is no duplication of services among organizations, to expedite the assistance process, and to coordinate transfers and services with the long-term recovery organizations in other counties and states. Information on each case is kept confidential.

The services provided vary with each family according to their remaining needs not met by their own resources, FEMA funds, Red Cross funds, other available resources, or by their insurance reimbursement.

The LTRMC coordinates and utilizes available volunteer services, available funds, and available supplies and resources first before purchasing any remaining needed supplies, services, and labor to help meet the existing needs. This organization does not make direct financial payment to the families but rather approves and reimburses vouchers for needed goods and services through participating merchants.

The organization strives primarily to be of benefit to the recovering citizens by working cooperatively with all facets of the community. The LTRMC has worked with local churches and other organizations to coordinate the dispersal of various donated items and services. Through the efforts of the LTRMC, counseling has been coordinated and disaster preparedness and recovery trainings have been provided. The organization is also working with FEMA in their provision of mobile homes within the county. The recovery group has tried to help families to peacefully resolve their unsettled insurance claims by involving the assistance of the state insurance director and investigators.

Volunteers

There have been many individuals, groups, and organizations volunteering thousands of hours of service in our community since the tornado. The volunteers have been exceptional in their caring, hard work, and quality of work.

The LTRMC has directly coordinated the volunteer services for over 300 volunteers from at least 17 organizations since March. More volunteers are already scheduled for the remaining summer months.

The Christian Reform World Relief Committee (“green shirts”), the National Relief Network, the Lutheran Disaster Services, the Methodist Volunteers in Mission, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Interact groups, and other groups (hailing from Tennessee, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, Virginia, Florida, and Mississippi) have all worked through the LTRMC to provide numerous volunteers for services such as: local farm and land cleanup, rebuilding, repairs, electrical, drywall, and roofing.

The Weaverland Disaster Services has coordinated volunteers from Mennonite churches in Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Missouri through the LTRMC to provide significant volunteer construction services such as fencing, repairing, and rebuilding across the county.

Some volunteer groups were here for one day while others were in the county for a week and needed local housing (including restrooms and showers) and meals while here which were all arranged through the LTRMC. The Jubilee Worship Center in Westmoreland, the Hartsville Pike Church of Christ, the Lafayette Church of Christ, the Lafayette First Baptist Church, and the New Life Baptist Church all have assisted with housing for the volunteers. The VFW Ladies Auxillary, the Lions Club, Holy Father Catholic Church, and the Lafayette Church of Christ helped to provide meals for the volunteers.

Cleanup efforts coordinated through the LTRMC have been diverse. Farms and residential areas both have received cleanup assistance such as: windblown storm debris, lumber and metal sorting, and partially standing structure demolition. The LTRMC has not been able to assist with the removal of large trees until this month as no volunteered large equipment has been available.

Through the LTRMC some homes and mobile homes have been totally rebuilt, and some have had the interior totally reconstructed. Some have had porches, decks, and handicapped access ramps constructed while some have required roof rebuilding or repair. Drywall, painting, siding, insulation, flooring, and electrical are other services that have been provided through the LTRMC efforts.

The LTRMC has endeavored to coordinate the ever-changing worksite needs with volunteers available at particular times and with particular skills. Foremost the LTRMC wants to meet the current needs of each of the victims. At times no volunteer help is needed while at other times a quantity of help or specific help is needed quickly. The LTRMC wants to make the most of each volunteer’s time, energies, skills, and age. To do this the LTRMC needs to be made aware of potential volunteers well in advance of the time they can volunteer so appropriate scheduling can be done.

Organizations wishing to provide assistance in our community are encouraged to work with and through the LTRMC so that all efforts are maximized and services are not duplicated.

Have Needs?

Some large equipment will be available for 3 or 4 days at the end of July to help remove large trees and major debris. Anyone needing assistance with the removal of large disaster debris is encouraged to call the LTRMC as soon as possible for scheduling.

Any disaster family who needs farm or lawn cleanup, house repair or rebuilding, or has other needs is encouraged to call the LTRMC for assistance. Any disaster family in need of a new electric water heater should contact the LTRMC as a large number of units have been donated.

Want to Donate or Help?

Financial donations to assist disaster affected citizens or to assist the LTRMC organization can be made directly to the LTRMC through one of the officers. A tax exempt donation can be made to the LTRMC through Macon Helps (see Anna Dean Carter). Financial donations can also be made at any local bank. To donate other types of assistance, contact the LTRMC office or one of the officers.

Any person or group wishing to volunteer their services should call the LTRMC. Additional volunteers to be case managers, to do data entry, or to work in the LTRMC office are always needed.

Thanks!
The LTRMC would like to thank every person and group who have contributed in some way to the recovery of our community whether mentioned specifically in this article or not. The outpouring of caring volunteers, supplies, services, and donations has been truly heart-warming and humbling.

Hickman Co. Volunteers Needed

2008-05-14T11:52:00.001-05:00

John Blackburn, who is coordinating volunteers for Disaster Recovery in Hickman County, is looking for teams to work on 2 projects.

One involves cutting up a large number of trees off of a fence row. The other would be in helping do salvage and demolition so a new home can be rebuilt.

Please contact John Blackburn (Centerville UMC member) at 931-729-9284.