Edward Graham, the Chief Operating Officer of Samaritan’s Purse, recently dedicated three new homes for families affected by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. This event marks a significant step in the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating storm that struck the area over a year ago.
During the dedication ceremony, held on October 23, at a scenic mountain site overlooking the Cane River near Burnsville, Graham shared a message of love and faith with the Bowens family and their relatives, whose homes were rebuilt by Samaritan’s Purse after being destroyed by the hurricane. Standing alongside the Bowenses and the Silverses, he reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the community, stating, “We don’t do this for charity. We do it because we love you. And we love you enough to tell you the truth: Jesus Christ loves you. You’re not forsaken.”
The Bowens’ new home has been constructed with accessibility features to accommodate their disabled daughter, Raigan. As Vanessa Bowens reflected on the experience, she expressed gratitude not only for the physical shelter but also for the friendships and community bonds forged throughout the process. Her family has experienced a profound spiritual journey, with both her daughter and niece accepting Jesus Christ into their lives in recent months.
Ron Silvers, who also received a new home, expressed deep appreciation for the volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to help. He remarked emotionally, “It makes my heart and my eyes run over to think that people like you cared enough for old mountain people to come and work for us without even getting paid. I hope God blesses you as much as you’ve blessed me.”
In addition to the new homes, both families received journals filled with encouraging notes from volunteers, alongside a specially signed Bible from the Billy Graham Training Center. Luther Harrison, Vice President of North American Ministries, highlighted the spiritual significance of their new beginnings, stating that while the homes are temporary, “Jesus is the key to eternal life.”
The dedication ceremony extended hope and encouragement to other families recovering from the hurricane. The Blankenships, who also benefited from the rebuilding efforts, shared their journey of resilience and faith. After being trapped during the hurricane, they expressed a profound sense of gratitude for the support received from volunteers across the country.
As Samaritan’s Purse continues its work in the region, Edward Graham emphasized that each home dedicated is a miracle, and that the restoration goes beyond just physical structures. The ongoing rebuilding efforts aim to share hope and faith with the community and reflect the organization’s mission of lending a helping hand during times of crisis.
Through these heartfelt dedications, families are not only receiving homes but are also finding a renewed sense of hope and connection to their community and faith, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.