APPALACHIA (February 18, 2025) – In an unprecedented weather event, the entire state of Kentucky is currently under a state of emergency. Christian Appalachian Project’s (CAP) Disaster Relief and Operation Sharing programs are coordinating efforts after devastating flooding struck almost all of Kentucky’s 120 counties.
“We are neighbors helping neighbors,” said Robyn Renner, CAP’s director of Disaster Relief. “The incoming weather will add to the challenge, but we are preparing now to begin assessments as early as Monday. We are heartbroken for the devastation we see all around and are ready to help families as soon as we can. CAP’s Disaster Relief program will stand alongside people in need in Appalachia in the days and weeks to come.”
Many of CAP’s employees and volunteers live in impacted areas, as well as thousands of the children, families, and seniors that CAP serves. Electricity and Internet service have been down in many areas while staff are working to help each other and set up a Response Command Center in Martin, Ky.
First responders are on the ground conducting search and rescue. CAP is standing by and is prepared to help once the water has receded and teams can conduct assessments. As with any natural disaster in Appalachia, CAP will mobilize Operation Sharing to get essential items to impacted areas as soon as possible, including food, water, and other critical needs.
“I have already requested disaster relief supplies and water from our large Gift-In-Kind donors. We will be redistributing to impacted communities as soon as we can,” said Aaron Thoms, manager of CAP’s Operation Sharing program in Paintsville, Ky.
Thoms has also been helping neighbors clean up as well as coordinating semi tractor trailer loads of supplies to distribute. “We have confirmed six loads and asked for 25 more. This is our home, these are our families and friends. They will not be forgotten. CAP will show up for them.”
CAP is asking for financial donations and volunteers to meet immediate and long-term needs to help families recovering from flooding. To volunteer, email volunteermanagement@chrisapp.org. If you wish to support CAP’s efforts to provide flood relief, please visit our website at christianapp.org/reliefnow and follow us on social media for updates about CAP’s response.
