Building Access to Hope: The 516 Project’s Disaster Response Efforts
The 516 Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing disaster response services to those affected by natural disasters. Recently, the organization’s volunteers served in Adamsville, Tn, an area that had been struck by two back-to-back tornadoes, causing widespread damage. Over a seven-day period, 15 volunteers from three different states served more than 12 families, contributing over 900 volunteer labor hours. The relief efforts of the 516 Project provide much-needed assistance to individuals and communities affected by disasters, helping to build access to hope.
As the volunteers worked tirelessly to assist those affected by the disaster, they saw the defeat turn to relief on the faces of those they were helping. One volunteer shared that they were touched by God in a new way during their time with the 516 Project. They said:
“As we were here helping these people who have lost a lot of trees or damage to their house or just lost everything, I was touched by God in a new way. I have been going on these trips for a couple years now and each trip is of its own. The people we meet, the ones we serve with, the first timers, the families God places us with, the aches and pains that come after the cloud 9 while you are there serving. This trip was in an area that had two back to back tornadoes come through and destruction was pretty bad in some areas. A couple of the homes we went to the owners were dealing with a lot. Some from the storm and some from losing loved ones and just life in general. As we were there helping and picking up the mess, you could see relief on their faces along with defeat and almost shame. As I was pulling a sled full of debris to the curb all I could think about was how God comes behind us and picks up our pieces and our brokenness. As I walked to the road I would stop and pick up some that was dropped and load it in my sled, then God says to me…. “You are not a mess, you are part of my message!” This was a great reminder to me as I was being the hands this go around, but God does this all the time.”
The work of the 516 Project not only touches the lives of those affected by disasters but also has a profound impact on the volunteers themselves. As they serve others and see the worst, the experiences they gain can humble them and make them look at life differently. Through their efforts, the volunteers seek to be an example of what it is like to have a relationship with God and to spread His love and grace to those in need.
In the aftermath of a disaster, it is through the efforts of volunteers and organizations like the 516 Project that hope can be built and faith can be restored. As one volunteer heard during their time with the organization, “The great thing is, God is always with us!!! He will never leave you nor forsake you. He is a great and faithful God! Look how he uses people like us to mentor and love on his people, encourage them and lift them up. Be the example to them of what’s it’s like to have a relationship with their Heavenly Father!”
We could not have achieved all that we have without your support. Your prayers, volunteer service, and generous donations have been instrumental in helping us meet the urgent needs of the families in Adamsville, Tn. Your giving has also helped us share the love of Jesus with those who need it most.
Please consider making a monthly gift to help us continue building access to hope for those affected by the tornadoes in Tennessee. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization, and your contributions are tax-deductible.
Thank you once again for partnering with us in our mission to build access to hope for those affected by the tornadoes in Tennessee. We are honored to serve alongside you, and we look forward to continuing our work together.
