Baptists on Mission (BOM) deployed disaster relief teams to Western North Carolina and has partnered with local churches to serve those affected by Tropical Storm Fred in Haywood County and surrounding areas. The storm caused destructive flooding that killed four people and left several still missing, according to Aug. 22 news reports.

BOM executive director Richard Brunson shared an update with the executive committee of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina’s board of directors Tuesday morning. Canton First Baptist Church is being used for housing for recovery volunteers. A shower and laundry unit is available on site for volunteers and affected residents.

BOM set up a base site for recovery and feeding operations at Crestview Baptist Church in Canton. There is also a shower and laundry unit for volunteers and a larger laundry unit to serve the community.

Tom Beam, BOM’s disaster relief coordinator, said there are currently 60 work orders for volunteers to respond to.

“Our site offers housing, meals, showers, laundry and great fellowship. We look forward to many more volunteers serving in Canton, N.C., to help people rebuild their lives after this devastating storm,” Beam said.

BOM has identified several other churches to provide lodging for more volunteers. BOM will begin an additional feeding operation this Wednesday and is looking for volunteers certified in feeding ministry. The location has yet to be announced.

BOM’s COVID-19 protocol encourages volunteers to have been fully vaccinated and to wear masks and practice social distancing when working in homes and buildings.

Click here to volunteer for recovery efforts and here to donate to BOM’s response in Western North Carolina.