In 2005, one of the deadliest and most destructive hurricanes in US history crashed into Louisiana and Mississippi. People were killed, homes were destroyed and lives were forever changed. Years later — Hurricane Katrina’s devastation is still felt. In the wake of the storm, extreme poverty has taken over Hancock County. Large families are sharing one-bedroom trailers and many makeshift shacks meant to be temporary have, out of necessity, become permanent homes. Over the past four years, Next Step teams have assisted Hancock Country residents by rebuilding homes that were destroyed or damaged during the hurricane. Many of these families were overlooked during the cleanup and never received any assistance from insurance companies or the government. With nowhere else to turn, these families need your help. Join us in Hancock County and you will have the opportunity to help rebuild homes, doing challenging work like repairing damaged roofs and siding, laying new foundations, hanging drywall and building wheelchair accessible ramps and decks. You will also have a chance to visit with residents and hear about their experience surviving Hurricane Katrina. Through these relationships with the residents, you will learn what it truly means to trust in the Lord during difficult times. Spend your free day reflecting on the week and enjoying the sunny beaches of Gulfport, Mississippi. Make a difference in the lives of Hancock Country residents by meeting the serious physical needs of a broken community while spreading God’s love. For more information, visit www.nextstepministries.com or contact Beth Heneghan at beth.heneghan@nextstepministries.com/(608) 514-4051. |