Australian Disaster Relief
Responding to Floods in the Illawarra, NSW
9 May 2024
During April, record rainfall across the coast of NSW caused landslips and overwhelmed creek and river systems.
Samaritan’s Purse Volunteers Rally to Restore Glenda and Peter’s Home in Tambourine
In the serene enclave of the Tamborine Mountains, where nature’s beauty often intertwines with the challenges of living in the hinterland bush, Glenda and Peter found themselves facing an unexpected trial after the Christmas day storms wreaked havoc on their peaceful home.
Having constructed their home in the early 2000s, the resilient couple, now in their late 70s, had weathered many storms. However, the aftermath of the recent storms left them grappling with a harsh reality: 14 days without power and water. With their family residing outside the area, Glenda and Peter’s property bore the brunt of fallen trees and debris, creating a daunting task that seemed insurmountable.
The steep terrain surrounding their home held remnants of the storm’s fury, a daunting reminder of the challenges faced by the aging couple. Undeterred, Glenda and Peter made their way to the local recovery centre, where they found support in the form of Samaritan’s Purse volunteers.
Tasked with the mission to prepare and move the fallen trees and debris to the roadside for collection, the volunteers embarked on a journey to help restore not just a property, but the hope and resilience of Glenda and Peter. The couple, overwhelmed by the selfless support they received, couldn’t express their gratitude enough.
Reflecting on the assistance, Glenda shared her heartfelt sentiments, stating,
“All I can say is thank you, we couldn’t have done this without some help, it’s just amazing.”
Expressing their awe at the generosity shown by the volunteers, Glenda added,
“I think we are just overwhelmed that there are people out there that would help us. We’ve never had help from anybody like this before. It’s just mind-blowing that there’s somebody out there that could come here and do it.”
The story of Glenda and Peter serves as a testament to the resilience of communities, and the transformative power of compassion. In the face of adversity, Samaritan’s Purse became more than just helpers; they were the hands and feet of Jesus’ this community needed.
