Serving Chronic Need: Seminole, Oklahoma
Rebuilding what the tornadoes tore down
In May 2022, the city of Seminole, Oklahoma experienced the devastating impact of two tornadoes within 48 hours with 60% of its structures damaged. For a community already wresting with chronic need, recovery from such destruction has been an overwhelming struggle. In disaster relief terms, this is classified as a complex disaster, where rebuilding is compounded by ongoing socio-economic challenges.
In response, Hope Force International mobilized to provide immediate relief, spending three weeks tarping roofs and providing emotional and spiritual care to survivors. Recognizing the long-term needs of this community, Hope Force has launched an extended recovery initiative in partnership with the City of Seminole, the Seminole Foundation, local community development efforts, and Christ Community Church of Edmond, Oklahoma.
This initiative includes repairing and constructing homes for families who lack the resources to rebuild, offering tangible expressions of God’s love and hope. Brian Wagner, Central U.S. Director for Hope Force, has strategically purchased a home in Seminole to serve as a team house, enabling a deeper, sustained presence in the heart of the greatest need. This home will provide two key functions:
- Serving the Local Community: Acting as a base for volunteers and teams to assist with home repairs, new construction, and ongoing care for residents.
- Supporting Regional Disaster Response: Establishing a central location in “Tornado Alley” to mobilize teams quickly in the event of future disasters.
While Seminole faces significant challenges, it is a community rich in culture and filled with resilient and beautiful people. Hope Force International is committed to sending multiple teams each year to invest in this community, demonstrating God’s love to these survivors of complex disasters.
We invite you to join us in Seminole. Together, we can help transform lives and bring restoration to this community in need.
If you are interested in joining a team or bringing a team in Seminole, please (ACT NOW)
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