unforgettable relationships that developed with other teams from all over the country (and Canada as well!)
D'iberville is a small town just across the bay from Biloxi. The city's volunteer efforts are being coordinated by a devoted resident, Irene McIntosh, whom I proudly call my friend. Her 24/7 efforts are evident in the progress the city has made over the last four months. Surrounding communities are improving, but not at the steady rate of D'iberville.
I have become attached to this city, its residents, and volunteers, and I don't foresee the passion that has grown within me waning any time soon. For as much progress that has been made, there is a lifetime of work ahead. Each time when I return home from my mission trips, I experience a bit of post-traumatic-stress; but it lessens each time — not because I am becoming callus, but because hope grows.
God is evident in the relief efforts and he has made clear to me that I am to be a part. I will continue to coordinate groups of volunteers to return to D'iberville and to support their efforts of recovery and rebuilding.
My teams and I have participated in mucking out homes, tree removal, community kitchen duties, working at the point of distribution center (POD-Jitney), serving Thanksgiving dinner, tearing out floors and ceilings, assessing and reassessing residents' needs, the demolition of a condemned home, etc. It is discussed before we arrive at the camp that we will agree to be flexible in what is requested of us. The purpose is not to meet our own needs, but those of the city and the coordinators of its relief and recovery efforts. All you have to do is look around and see that their system is working! |
