Samaritan's Purse Responds to Hurricane Idalia

International Christian Relief Organization deployed Disaster Relief Units and staff to hurricane-devastated areas

BOONE, N.C., Aug. 31, 2023—Samaritan's Purse has deployed disaster response specialists and two tractor-trailers—packed with tools and relief supplies— along with shower trailers, kitchen trailers, and other support equipment to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Idalia. The Category-3 storm caused severe wind damage and flooding. The N.C.-based organization will respond in Pasco County and Taylor County, Florida—serving the hard-hit communities of Perry, Keaton Beach, Hudson, New Port Richey, and Elfers.

As the storm began developing earlier this week, Samaritan's Purse prepositioned two Disaster Relief Units in Albany, Georgia to ensure a swift entry into badly impacted areas.

“Hurricane Idalia has caused devastating flooding and wind damage across the Southeast,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse. “We are praying for everyone impacted by this Category 3 storm, and we are sending out teams of volunteers to help homeowners start to pick up the pieces. Most importantly, we want to remind these families that God loves them.”

The international Christian relief organization is mobilizing volunteers from across the country to help families recover from the hurricane. They will help homeowners by removing mud from flooded homes, tarping damaged roofs, and clearing downed trees. To stay up to date on the response or get involved, go to SamaritansPurse.org to learn more.

Based in Boone, North Carolina, Samaritan's Purse responds to the physical and spiritual needs of individuals in crisis situations—especially in locations where few others are working. Led by President and CEO Franklin Graham, Samaritan’s Purse works in more than 100 countries to provide aid to victims of war, disease, disaster, poverty, famine and persecution. For more information, visit SamaritansPurse.org.