New Homes for Hurricane Helen Survivors in North Carolina

On Friday, two families, who lost nearly everything to Hurricane Helen, were handed the keys to new homes donated by Samaritan’s Purse in western North Carolina. The occasion was marked by the dedication of a mobile home as part of an extensive recovery initiative aimed at restoring hope to those affected by the storm.

Pastor Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, expressed gratitude for the new homes. He emphasized the emotional connection, stating, “We want these families to know that God loves them and hasn’t forgotten them.”

As Graham stood near the site where floods had ravaged the mobile home community last fall, he described the moment as a “full-sacrifice moment.” He reflected on the joy of seeing families return to stable housing.

A young mother stood on the doorstep of her new home, holding her baby while tears streamed down her face. Her family had been living in a rundown camper since their trailer was destroyed. Only days prior, she welcomed her newborn into the world.

“God provided me with shelter,” she said softly, adding, “It was a long journey, but I held onto faith and patience.”

Initially hoping for repairs to their old trailer, she was pleasantly surprised when she received a fully furnished, brand-new home.

Earlier that day, another mother and her three children entered their new home for the first time, relief washing over them after their previous mobile home was crushed by falling trees during the hurricane.

Both homes featured reinforced walls and weather-resistant elements, designed for longevity. Each family not only received keys to their new home but also a Bible, symbolizing the mission’s heart.

“These are houses built by the people of God in the name of Jesus,” Graham remarked. “We want these families to understand they are loved.” Samaritan’s Purse has constructed several new homes across the region, providing survivors with upgraded living spaces. Graham stated, “These homes are just the first two of many, and we’re prepared to offer hundreds more if needed.”

Before reconstruction efforts began, around 35,000 Samaritan’s Purse volunteers worked tirelessly across western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. They helped with tree removal, debris clearing, and provided crucial assistance to those impacted.

In addition to housing, the organization has replaced hundreds of vehicles and supported thousands of families with food and basic needs. Yet, Graham highlighted that it’s the personal moments—quiet prayers and the joy of children stepping into bedrooms again—that truly define their mission.

“We thank everyone who donated,” he said. “We’ve received thousands, but above all, we thank God for making this possible.”