When late August storms swept across Midwest and New England states leaving widespread tornado and flood damage, state conventions were once again called on to assist with disaster relief. The damage was so extensive that multiple states in unaffected part of the U.S. were asked to offer cleanup, recovery and chainsaw support.

Mike Flannery, disaster relief director for the Baptist Convention of New York, issued a call for assistance and Alabama responded, being familiar with the area after having provided long-term response for Staten Island after Hurricane Sandy. Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief is currently deploying cleanup, recovery and mudout teams supported by feeding and chaplaincy personnel to the Central Islip flood impact area of Long Island. Currently, Cleburne Association’s unit along with a unit from District 4 comprised of volunteers from the East Liberty and Tuskegee/Lee Associations are responding.

Earlier this week, on a national state director’s conference call, Mike Flannery was quick to express appreciation for disaster relief volunteers supporting this effort, citing multiple decisions for Christ as a result from the ministry being provided. Mel Johnson, Alabama Baptist’s disaster relief strategist, voiced Alabama’s continued commitment to assist.

Ron Warren, Alabama Baptist’s cleanup recovery coordinator, has placed additional Alabama volunteers on alert for response if assessments on Long Island determine the need for more teams.