Hope Force Responds to Tornado Disaster!

Disaster response teams from Hope Force International have been deployed into the aftermath of deadly storms and tornado outbreaks across the southern half of the United States. This morning, an HFI team was deployed to Chattanooga, TN, and nearby communities where they will be involved in food distribution, hydration and emotional and spiritual care. Assessments are underway in Smithville, Mississippi which received a direct hit from the killer storms. Hope Force has a team of Reservists preparing to assist in disaster-stricken areas.

HFI is also responding to a request to assist in the community of Harvest, Alabama (near Huntsville) -- an area hard hit by the recent rash of tornadoes. Already a dozen Hope Force Reservists are on location. More are needed. Our teams will be involved in the application of blue tarps to help prevent further water damage, home repair and debris removal and emotional and spiritual care. Click here to see dramatic photo images from the tornado zone. Please pray for the families of those who have lost their lives - literally hundreds - and for the necessary relief and recovery that will be taking place in the days and weeks ahead.

Funds are being sought to assist in the purchase of supplies required to accommodate ongoing relief efforts. To make a donation, please click here.

"Our teams are involved in the application of blue tarps to help prevent further water damage, home repair, debris removal alongside emotional and spiritual care," explains Cherie Minton, Co-Founder of Hope Force. "The magnitude of damage is indescribable. We have staged three teams working in all four affected states. The images of the storm's destruction dramatically illustrate the unbelievable ferocity and damage of these storms."

The killer storms have been responsible for almost 350 deaths, making it the second-worst in US history. The current numbers are expected to rise as rescuers comb through rubble and debris. Officials are bracing for a serious humanitarian crisis as hundreds of thousands of residents remain without power, clean water, fuel and food supplies. 

"Tornadoes can strike anywhere - in poverty-stricken areas, or in upscale neighborhoods," Minton continues. "The outcome is always the same: people in shock...deeply traumatized...needing to know there are people who are willing to come alongside and bring desperately needed help."

Hope Force specializes in training individuals for the arduous task of disaster response. The course includes two days and two evenings of preparation for service. This training is required to be considered as a Hope Force Reservist - eligible for rapid deployment, often within 24 to 48 hours following a disaster event. The city of Rochester, New York hosts the next Disaster Response training - May 12 to 14.

Funds are being sought to assist in the purchase of supplies required to accommodate ongoing relief efforts in the southern United States. "This disaster is truly unfathomable," says Minton. "We have Reservists coming in from all across the nation. Please pray for the families of those who have lost their lives - literally hundreds - and for the necessary relief and recovery that will be taking place in the days and weeks ahead.

As a leading non-profit organization dedicated to disaster response, Hope Force is comprised of individuals who are dedicated to utilizing their expertise to inspire, equip and mobilize volunteers into areas of crisis around the world. Founded by Jack and Cherie Minton in 2003, Hope Force endeavors to become a leading volunteer response force, bringing hope to those affected by crisis or disaster.