THAILAND – At the age of 52, Prakaiwan thought she had survived the worst life could throw at her—breast cancer. But the journey since her surgery four years ago has been just as challenging. Beyond the painful rigors of battling illness, she also discovered another harsh reality—the cost of water. Thankfully, you were there when she needed you most to help her through this new challenge!
Prakaiwan did what she could to support her son. She farmed rice and relied on rainwater to meet their daily needs, but she didn’t feel it was safe to drink. She had to purchase bottled water—often three or four buckets each week. With expenses piling up, sometimes she couldn’t afford the cost of water. “Mothers have no income. There is no work to do. There is no way to buy food to eat,” she said. They certainly couldn’t afford the pricey water.
Can you imagine how it must have felt to know clean water was nearby and available, but not be able to buy it?
Regular Access to Clean Water
Her situation seemed impossible to overcome, being that the cost of water was beyond her means. But you made a way. Thanks to your generous support, Operation Blessing was able to partner with a church near Prakaiwan to supply clean water to her entire village. Once a well and water filtration system were in place, Prakaiwan could access as much clean water as she needed—without the financial burden.
“It was delicious,” Prakaiwan said when she tasted the water. Now, she can save her money for continued healthcare and other expenses for her family. “Thank you very much.”
You are providing clean water to many remote communities like Prakaiwan’s throughout Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Your love is saving these families valuable time and money that can be spent focusing on other needs. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
NORTH CAROLINA – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the community of Asheville is experiencing unprecedented challenges. Homes have been destroyed, families are struggling, but thanks to your incredible support, Operation Blessing is stepping up to feed hurricane victims in Asheville and beyond.
Operation Blessing’s disaster relief team is on the ground, providing much-needed hot meals to the survivors of Hurricane Helene. This effort, made possible by your generosity, is feeding hurricane victims who have lost almost everything in the wake of this disaster. Julian, a hurricane survivor, shared, “The nourishment, the warm meal, makes you just praise God you’re alive.”
Every hot meal served offers a moment of hope and connection for those affected. Kent, another survivor, expressed the emotional support that comes from this care, “When those of us who never thought we would rely on food services such as Operation Blessing come here to eat, it gives us a sense of community.”
A Hot Meal Brings Hope to Asheville
At the Home Depot on Fairview Avenue in Asheville, food and clean drinking water are the greatest needs right now. One survivor expressed gratitude, saying, “I can definitely taste the amount of compassion somebody put into preparing this meal. That kind of hope is what this community needs right now.”
The work in Asheville doesn’t stop with feeding hurricane victims. Every meal carries with it not just nourishment, but also emotional healing. Sometimes the smell and warmth of a fresh meal brings back memories of better times, a reminder that comfort can still be found even in the toughest moments.
Helping Helene Victims in North Carolina and Hurricane Milton Victims In Florida
In North Carolina, Operation Blessing continues feeding hurricane victims, ensuring families are provided with meals during their most trying times. Volunteers are also distributing food and clean up supplies, and offering debris removal for families trying to rebuild their lives after the storm. But the devastation from recent storms doesn’t stop at state lines.
Operation Blessing’s efforts are also reaching communities in Florida that were ravaged by Hurricane Milton. Sarasota, Florida has seen massive damage, and your generosity is helping people there as well through food, supplies, and volunteer efforts.
Helping People in North Carolina and Florida: How You Can Make a Difference
Your continued support is critical to helping people in North Carolina and Florida recover from these devastating hurricanes.
With your generosity, Operation Blessing will keep providing relief where it’s needed most. Visit Operation Blessing to make a donation and help ensure families in Asheville, Sarasota, and other affected areas have access to the support they need.
HONDURAS – We’d like to tell you a story of how loaves of bread, the love of family, and your cheerful giving changed a Honduran family’s lives.
Ten years ago, Brenda gave birth to a beautiful baby boy she named Marvin. As precious as this moment was, it quickly took a negative turn. Marvin was born with clubfoot, a condition that causes the foot to turn inward and, if left untreated, can have lasting effects on a child’s ability to walk.
As though this wasn’t already enough for Brenda to process, shortly after Marvin’s birth his father abandoned the family, leaving Brenda to navigate the difficult path of single parenthood. Eventually, Brenda remarried and continued to grow her family, welcoming a baby girl. While Brenda had found happiness, she still desperately wanted to find healing for her son. Her husband, Juan, works hard at a local hardware store, but his income wasn’t enough to cover household expenses and help Marvin.
The financial strain was immense, so Brenda decided to turn her passion for baking into a business. She used the few utensils she had at home and began making bread. Her new business provided some income but was limited, as she could only produce 10 bags of bread daily.
With their finances strained, the couple resorted to buying less food so that they could save money. Still actively seeking answers for their son, Brenda and Marvin traveled to the capital, Tegucigalpa, which depleted their savings and left barely enough money to provide food for their children.
To add insult to injury, the trip confirmed what the couple already knew—the surgery young Marvin needed was out of reach because the cost was too high. That is where your cheerful giving would make a difference.
Thankfully, Operation Blessing heard of their struggles and stepped in to bring hope and healing to this family. Due to the generosity of friends like YOU, Marvin’s life took a dramatic turn. His surgery and medical care were fully funded, giving him the chance to walk and run like any other child.
But your support didn’t end there. Recognizing Brenda’s entrepreneurial spirit and her potential to uplift her family, Operation Blessing provided her with the equipment and financial training needed to expand her baking business. This was only possible because of your compassionate support.
With these newfound resources and knowledge, Brenda’s baking business flourished. She reported that her sales increased to eight times what they had been before. The transformation in Brenda’s family has been profound. They no longer worry about where their next meal will come from, and Marvin’s bright smile and active lifestyle stand as a testament to the life-changing impact of your loving support.
Brenda’s gratitude knows no bounds. “We thank the donors of Operation Blessing for blessing us,” she said with a heart full of emotion. “Thank you for getting us out of the hole we were in. I am grateful from the bottom of my heart. May God continue to bless you.”
Thank You for Your Cheerful Giving
Brenda’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, hope and resilience coupled with the kindness of strangers can pave the way for a brighter future. Her journey from despair to hope is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration for all who hear it.
NORTH CAROLINA – In the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on North Carolina, a heartbreaking scene unfolds along the Swannanoa River. Families who once called this area home now find themselves living in tents. Sadly, their houses have been swept away by the storm’s fury. This is the stark reality for many homeless Hurricane Helene survivors.
Homeless in North Carolina After Hurricane Helene: A Community in Crisis
As the Operation Blessing disaster relief team arrived on the scene, we were met with a sobering sight. Haley Henson, a disaster team member, described the situation. “There are tents that I’m surrounded by, and all of the people staying right here lived on the Swannanoa River. Their homes were washed away in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.”
The immediate needs of these homeless Hurricane Helene survivors were basic but crucial. While food and water had been secured, the uncertainty of their situation loomed large. How long would they need to call these tents home? The answer remains unclear, but your dedication to the hurricane survivors, is making a difference.
Your Generosity in Action: Bringing Light to the Darkness
You, our incredible partners, have made it possible for us to respond swiftly and effectively to this crisis. Your donations have allowed us to provide essential items that bring comfort and hope to those affected by this disaster.
One of the first requests from the community was for light. Thanks to your support, we were able to distribute solar lamps, ensuring that these families wouldn’t have to face the night in total darkness.
But your impact doesn’t stop there. You’ve made it possible for us to plan the delivery of generators, addressing another urgent need expressed by the community. Your generosity is quite literally powering hope in this time of crisis.
Rebuilding Lives: The Road Ahead for Homeless Hurricane Helene Survivors
The journey to recovery for these homeless North Carolina residents after Hurricane Helene will be long and challenging. Our work trailer, stocked with rakes and chainsaws, offers the means to clear debris and clear the area the homeless are using for their tents. “Operation Blessing wants to come in and restore faith and hope to those that are hurting in the aftermath of this storm,” Henson emphasized. Of course, this mission is only possible because of YOU, our dedicated partners.
“Operation Blessing wants to come in and restore faith and hope to those that are hurting in the aftermath of this storm.”
-Hayley Henson of Operation Blessing
A Call to Action: You Can Make a Difference
As we continue our efforts to support the homeless after Helene in North Carolina and look for ways to improve their temporary housing situation, your ongoing support remains crucial. You are the reason these families can see a glimmer of hope in these dark hours.
You made this immediate response possible, and you can continue to make a difference.
The road to recovery for these homeless Hurricane Helene survivors will be long, but with your help, we can ensure they don’t walk it alone. Your generosity today can bring light, hope, and tangible support to those who need it most in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
GEORGIA – Category 4 Hurricane Helene left a devastating mark on communities across the Southeast, particularly in Georgia. With catastrophic winds uprooting trees and sending them crashing into homes, the aftermath was overwhelming for many residents. Survivor Joshua described the emotional toll, saying, “Hurricane Helene did a number on our house. There’s a certain amount of emotional turmoil that something like this takes on you.”
Your Role in Hurricane Helene Recovery
Thanks to the incredible generosity of partners like you, Operation Blessing sprang into action almost immediately after the storm. Your support made it possible for the disaster relief team to be on the ground, providing crucial aid to families as they began their recovery journey. Joshua recalled, “Operation Blessing responded almost immediately to my phone calls. I told them my needs and Operation Blessing came down.”
Essential Debris Removal Services
One of the most pressing needs following Hurricane Helene is extensive debris removal. Operation Blessing prioritized clearing fallen trees and hazardous materials, restoring safety to affected homes. Joshua noted, “They have come out and cleared the debris. They’re currently clearing the last of the trees off the top of my house.” This vital service was essential for families like his, allowing them to regain a sense of normalcy amid chaos.
The Generosity of Our Partners
The support provided to communities affected by Hurricane Helene is only possible because of partners like you. Your donations enable Operation Blessing to deliver life-changing services, from debris cleanup to emotional support for families grappling with loss. Joshua expressed his gratitude, saying, “Operation Blessing has truly changed the aftermath of this storm for me. Thank you for changing our life and allowing us to move forward in the recovery from this storm.”
How You Can Help Hurricane Helene Survivors
The path to recovery is long, but with your continued support, Operation Blessing can make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by Hurricane Helene. If you want to join the effort to support families in need, visit Operation Blessing’s Disaster Relief page today. Together, we can help communities heal and rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Your contributions can turn hope into reality for those facing the aftermath of this disaster.
NORTH CAROLINA – In the wake of devastating destruction in North Carolina, a powerful story of faith after Hurricane Helene emerges. Events across the state are becoming beacons of hope, demonstrating that even in the darkest times, the light of faith burns bright.
Faith Events Unite Communities in North Carolina
In Hendersonville and beyond, faith events are springing up across North Carolina, offering solace and strength to those affected by Hurricane Helene. These gatherings are more than just religious services; they’re a testament to the unbreakable spirit of North Carolinians and their unwavering strength in the face of adversity.
Hendersonville High School: A Field of Faith
At Hendersonville High School’s football field, an open-air event welcomed people of all faiths and denominations. The message was clear: despite life’s storms, strength can be found in God.
Brookstone Church: Comfort in Community
Just north of Asheville, Brookstone Church in Weaverville held a special service at Mars Hill University. Pastor Jared Reece emphasized the tangible hope felt within these communities. “For those who don’t believe in Christ, they are seeing the hope of Christ right in front of them as their neighbors go out and are pouring into one another.”
Faith After Hurricane Helene: Stories of Survival and Grace
Aaron and Larissa Smith’s experienced some of the worst affects of the storm. They were airlifted from their neighborhood after a boulder crashed into their home. All they and their two children have left are their dog and a suitcase. “We were 15 feet away from being crushed,” Aaron recounted, his voice filled with gratitude for their survival. He also spoke of God’s faithfulness and the blessing he found at the Hendersonville event.
Your Generosity: The Cornerstone of Recovery
In times like these, the incredible generosity of partners like you becomes the cornerstone of recovery efforts. Your support is the reason why organizations like Operation Blessing can make a real difference on the ground.
Operation Blessing: Your Hands Extended
Thanks to your generous donations, Operation Blessing’s Disaster Relief Team has been able to establish a base in Asheville, serving thousands of meals daily and distributing essential supplies. You also made it possible for teams to fly into remote neighborhoods, delivering clean water and offering hope to those in desperate need. Your support goes beyond material aid; it enables us to share the love of Christ in tangible ways.
The Path Forward: Faith After Hurricane Helene
Your continued support and prayers are crucial in this journey of recovery. Together, we can ensure that faith after Hurricane Helene doesn’t just survive, but thrives, becoming a testament to the indomitable spirit of North Carolina and the power of community united by God.
To support ongoing relief efforts and be a part of this inspiring story, visit Operation Blessing’s disaster relief page at ob.org/obdisaster. Your generosity today can make a world of difference for those rebuilding their lives after Hurricane Helene.
UNITED STATES – When Hurricane Helene made landfall as a powerful Category 4 storm, no one anticipated the sheer devastation it would leave in its wake. Ripping through Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee, Helene proved to be the deadliest hurricane to strike the United States in over 20 years. Communities were cut off, roads washed away, and the lives of thousands were turned upside down. In the midst of this disaster, you—the generous partners of Operation Blessing—rose to the occasion, providing life-saving hurricane relief to those in desperate need. In spite of the destruction, you helped provide hope through Hurricane Helene relief.
Helene Relief in North Carolina: The Storm Hits Home
As Hurricane Helene barreled northward, Asheville became one of the hardest-hit areas. Record-breaking flooding devastated the region, cutting off residents from essential services. “It hasn’t been this bad since 1916,” says Hayley Henson, a member of the Operation Blessing U.S. Disaster Relief team, who experienced the storm firsthand in her hometown. Washed-out roads and downed cell service left many stranded and unable to call for help. “Many people couldn’t leave. Low-income communities were hit hardest because they didn’t have the resources to evacuate,” Hayley said.
“Many people couldn’t leave—low-income communities were hit hardest because they didn’t have the resources to evacuate.”
-Hayley Henson – National Media Liaison
But thanks to your unwavering support, help arrived swiftly. The Operation Blessing team, already positioned in Florida ahead of the storm, quickly mobilized and reached those in need.
You Made Hope through Hurricane Helene Relief Possible
With the magnitude of the disaster, our Operation Blessing disaster experts from across the globe were called in to assist with the relief efforts in Asheville and the surrounding area of North Carolina. Emergency meal kits, water, and other essential supplies were delivered to communities that hadn’t yet received help. Danny Castro, a member of the Operation Blessing International Disaster team summed up the direness of the situation. “There’s no gas, no electricity—they’re in great need.”
Bringing Hurricane Relief to Georgia: Your Impact in Valdosta
In Georgia, the impact of Hurricane Helene was also significant, with communities left grappling with downed trees, destroyed homes, and power outages. In Valdosta, local churches partnered with Operation Blessing to bring critical hurricane relief to affected residents. Pastor Caleb Clay, who worked closely with Operation Blessing, noted how the partnership allowed his church to be the “hands and feet of Jesus” to their hurting community.
“We’ve never seen anything like this, not even after Hurricane Idalia last year,” Pastor Clay said. “But as soon as we needed them, Operation Blessing was there, organizing volunteers and providing resources to help us clean up debris, tarp roofs, and bring hope to our neighbors. None of this would have been possible without you, our generous donors.”
Your Generosity in Action: A Personal Thank You
In the face of such overwhelming devastation, it’s easy to feel helpless. But you, through your donations and support, have made an incredible difference. Residents who were isolated and afraid, like Melissa Benson, were overjoyed to see Operation Blessing arrive. “This is the first organization to come to this side of town,” she said. “We appreciate you being here to help us when we need it most.”
Another resident, Sadie Jones, echoed that gratitude: “You people are God’s blessing for two old ladies who can’t fend for themselves. What you’re doing is beyond imaginable, coming to our rescue like this. God bless you all.”
Continuing the Work of Hurricane Helene Relief
The road to recovery is long, but thanks to your selfless giving, Operation Blessing continues to be on the front lines of disaster relief. Whether it’s clearing debris, delivering meals, or simply offering a shoulder to cry on, the impact you’ve made through your generosity is life-changing for those affected by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina and Georgia.
As Hayley, who witnessed the devastation firsthand, says, “There’s something about disasters that pulls people together. God helps us pool our resources to help those in need, and I’m so grateful to be a part of it. And we couldn’t do it without you.”
Your love and compassion are the heart of our efforts. Because of you, hope is on the horizon for the countless families rebuilding after Hurricane Helene.
GUATEMALA – Abygail lives in the heart of Guatemala. A single mother of 2 boys, she faces a silent struggle that threatens many people in her community: the risk of using dangerous water to survive. While she does have places to go to get water, the sources are not safe to drink. The only real solution is a water system that provides water free from bacteria and contaminants.
2 Sources of Dangerous Water
Abygail’s family, like many others in their community, relied on two primary sources of water, both of which posed significant health risks.
A shallow well dug near their home
A polluted river located more than a 30-minute walk away
The water from these sources was far from safe. “The color is yellow. Sometimes it smells like dead animals,” Abygail described the well water. “We can’t drink it because it is bad and hurts our stomachs.” The river water was no better, with Abygail noting its “rusty smell and taste.”
Despite knowing the dangers, families like Abygail’s often had no choice but to consume this water. Her son said, “When I drink the water, my stomach hurts.” The consequences of drinking such contaminated water were severe, with Abygail’s children frequently falling ill and requiring medical attention.
The Need for Clean Water Systems in Guatemala
The situation in Abygail’s community highlights the critical need for clean water solutions in Guatemala. Families shouldn’t have to choose between dehydration and illness. The presence of proper water treatment and distribution systems can dramatically improve public health, reduce waterborne diseases, and enhance overall quality of life.
Operation Blessing Brings Change
In the face of this localized threat from dangerous water, Operation Blessing stepped in with a life-changing solution. We drilled a deep well in Abygail’s community. This helped provide a reliable source of clean water. But they didn’t stop there. We went further by:
Installing a 4,000-gallon water tank
Implementing a purification system
Creating a network of pipes to distribute clean water to every home in the community
This system will ensure that families in Abygail’s community have constant access to safe, clean water right in their homes. The impact has been immediate and profound. Abygail expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you to Operation Blessing and the people who gave money to bring this clean water.”
The Power of Kindness
The transformation in Abygail’s community wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible kindness of Operation Blessing’s partners. Your donations have directly contributed to providing not just clean water, but hope and health to families in need. You are the reason children in Abygail’s community can now drink water without fear of illness.
The Power of Your Support
While the story of Abygail’s village is one of triumph, countless others in Guatemala and around the world still face the daily struggle of accessing clean water. Because of this, Operation Blessing remains committed to addressing this global need, one community at a time.
Your continued support makes that possible! Every donation, no matter the size, contributes to a future where dangerous water is a thing of the past, and clean, safe water is a reality for all.
ASHEVILLE – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, you sent lifesaving aid directly to those in need. Operation Blessing’s helicopter supply drop in North Carolina brought crucial hurricane relief to families isolated by the storm. Thanks to your incredible generosity, survivors of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina received water filtration systems, solar lights, and emergency food packages. This swift response brought hope and life-saving resources to those hardest hit by the devastation.
Hurricane Relief Through a Helicopter Supply Drop
The scale of destruction caused by Hurricane Helene has been overwhelming. Roads were washed away, bridges collapsed, and entire communities were left without power or clean water. But your donations made it possible for Operation Blessing to reach these remote locations with essential supplies. Our multiple helicopter supply drops targeted areas cut off from traditional aid routes, ensuring that no family was left behind.
Jess, one of the storm survivors, shared her emotional story: “Hearing that we could reliably pull water from our creek again brought me to tears.” Thanks to your support, Jess and many others now have access to clean water through the water filtration systems you helped provide.
Hurricane Helene Relief in North Carolina via Helicopter
With roads impassable and communities stranded, helicopter supply drop proved to be a lifeline for families across Western North Carolina. In addition to water filtration systems, you helped deliver solar lamps and emergency meal kits. These supplies, made possible by your donations, are vital for families like Jess’s, who lost access to clean water and power after the hurricane. The impact of your donations is felt deeply by those receiving aid. “We’ve been living off bottled water, but it can only go so far,” Jess explained.
You Made This Relief Possible
Your compassion and generosity are the driving force behind Operation Blessing’s ability to provide timely disaster relief. The hurricane relief through this helicopter supply drop was a direct result of your support. You are the reason we can continue to deliver emergency supplies to those in desperate need after disasters like Hurricane Helene. Families in North Carolina are still recovering from the devastating effects of the storm. But thanks to you, they have clean water, light, and food during these challenging times.
Help More Families in Need
The recovery is far from over, and there are still many families who need help. If you want to continue supporting disaster relief efforts, visit Operation Blessing’s disaster relief page. By donating today, you are helping Operation Blessing continue to deliver life-saving aid to families facing the aftermath of hurricanes and other natural disasters.
BRAZIL – Weeks after the rush of floodwaters in Brazil no longer dominated the news, families were still suffering. But thanks to your generosity, Operation Blessing continues offering hope and help long after floodwaters recede and the headlines fade.
“We were very, very surprised, because it happened so quickly,” shared Rosangela, a flood survivor. “We never thought the water would get as high as it did. There was no time to do anything.” The devastation was overwhelming, with hundreds of thousands displaced, homes destroyed, and livelihoods lost.
Andre, a local baker, remembers the moment he realized danger was imminent. “I was at home, and we were following the news of what was happening, and we kind of freaked out when the dam started to overflow close to our house. Then we had to get out.”
The Loss of Personal Items after Floodwaters Recede
For Andre, the floods washed away more than just his possessions—they threatened his family’s entire livelihood. “Some things I lost during the flood are impossible to recover. I lost boxes for organizing our groceries. I lost fryer baskets, spoons, and utensils that we use frequently for the churro business, as well as perishable products,” he explained.
The loss of his churro cart hit particularly hard. “I felt so helpless that we couldn’t deal with such destruction by this force of nature. I felt so sad when I saw the cart submerged in water. It’s my livelihood. It’s the only thing I have to support my family.”
But even as the news cycle moved on, Operation Blessing remained in the hard-hit city of Novo Hamburgo, offering crucial support to those in need. Thanks to your compassion, we were able to step in with brand-new tools and materials and help Andre restart his business. “After such loss, we got back to doing things and working. It makes us feel like we can go on. Operation Blessing helped me to start my work again,” Andre said gratefully.
Your generosity allowed Operation Blessing to address a range of needs across affected areas. From providing food and safe water to distributing solar lamps, hygiene kits, and cleaning supplies, your support made a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Picking Up the Pieces After the Flood
Many families found hope through the disaster relief team’s ongoing efforts. Patrini, a mother of three, returned home after weeks in a shelter to face the daunting task of cleaning up. “Mentally, my children and I have had a very difficult time with this. Everything is difficult. We lost everything.
It’s hard to see our house in this state,” she explained. Patrini’s husband, Jeremias, added, “It’s overwhelming. We never imagined this could happen to us. It was a shock to see our things not be rescued in time to salvage them, and only be able to take what little we could.”
Thanks to friends like you, we were able to provide essential cleaning kits to Patrini’s family and others to help sanitize their homes. “This cleaning is so important to me, because I was alone with three children,” Patrini said. “There was no one to help me, and then help practically fell from the sky! It would have been hard for me to clean alone. I’m so glad they arrived.”
She added gratefully, “To those who give, I say thank you very much! May God help more and more. And may God touch more hearts to help people in need.”
Andre also expressed his gratitude. “I want to thank the people who help us. It’s not just for me and my business, but also the others you’ve helped by helping me. I want to thank Operation Blessing for all their help. God always sends the right people at the right time.”
Your faithful support enables Operation Blessing to keep showing the world God’s love far beyond the initial shock of disaster. Even after floodwaters recede, you are helping communities rebuild and restore their lives. In Brazil—and wherever disaster strikes next—you are making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.
