The Cape Hatteras United Methodist Men (CHUMM) worked with Disaster Ministries at our Ocracoke Disaster Recovery Center in February. Over three weeks, more than 60 volunteers came from Cape Hatteras, Rodanthe, Kitty Hawk, Duck, and Elizabeth City Methodist Men teams. CHUMM was “joined by other volunteers from North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Tennessee.” Their “work focused on rebuilding the interiors of flooded homes so that owners can move back in.”
According to Dennis Carroll, Director of the Cape Hatteras United Methodist Men, “what started as a very modest effort to help our neighbors, and fill a gap, exceeded our expectations. The number of volunteers grew as did the results, despite the weather and logistical challenges. The welcome reception and gratitude of the Ocracoke people was heartwarming. We also thank the homeowners who have let our volunteers, as well as displaced residents, stay in their homes. The continuing need is great since many families and individuals are still displaced.”
Carroll also stated, “Disaster Ministries is making every effort to either get families back in their homes or provide temporary travel trailers for some residents, as the current temporary rental homes become unavailable during tourist season.” Thank you to CHUMM and all of the volunteers who have donated their time and gifts to help others in need.
If you would like more information about volunteer opportunities in eastern North Carolina, contact the Disaster Call Center at 888-440-9167 or disaster@nccumc.org.