World Renew Disaster Response Services Mobilizing in Wake of Tornadoes

World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS) has quickly engaged several of its regional managers to begin coordinating a response to powerful tornadoes that caused destruction in six states on Sunday, April 27th.

Early-response coordinators are also in the process of preparing to be deployed.

“Iowa, North Carolina, and Kansas were all affected by this storm system,” said World Renew DRS Director Bill Adams.

“A member of Terra Ceia CRC in North Carolina said that the church was unharmed. Our regional managers there, Rick and Bonnie Wiersma, reported that there was damage to 200 homes in the outlying areas and two dozen additional houses in Elizabeth City.”

At least 16 people were killed in Arkansas and tornadoes caused further damage in Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri.

“This is a very nasty storm system, and it’s not done yet,” said Mark Martin, World Renew DRS regional manager the day after the initial tornadoes.

He and his wife, Carol, monitor disasters for the organization in the central U.S. The Martins are currently focusing on Baxter Springs, Kansas, and Quapaw, Oklahoma, where nearly 100 homes and businesses were destroyed by one of Sunday’s tornadoes, and one person was killed.

“Our hearts are with those who were hit by this powerful storm system, and we pray that no one else will be harmed. God willing, World Renew DRS will be there to respond to those who need help the most,” Adams said.

DRS responds immediately to disasters through early assessments, clean up services, and coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies.

World Renew DRS commits to responding to disasters long term by providing training for recovery organizations, identifying the most vulnerable disaster survivors to ensure they receive the assistance needed, and by providing long-term reconstruction to rebuild months and years after the disaster strikes.