Local connections to the disaster wrought by Hurricane Helene in the South [column]

In the early hours of a quiet morning, I was weighed down with concern for my son, Sean, who lives in the mountains near Asheville, North Carolina.

Hurricane Helene had swept through the area, causing widespread damage — uprooting trees and blocking the only roads leading to his home. For days, we had limited communication, as Sean had to hike down the mountain to find a small patch of cell service. Every moment of waiting was filled with uncertainty and worry.

That morning, as I anxiously went through my emails, I received a message from Mennonite Disaster Service, based in Lititz. I had supported them before, and they were reaching out for donations to continue their critical work in disaster-stricken areas impacted by Helene.

Their efforts have spanned across the globe, bringing aid to people in urgent need, whether due to natural disasters or crises in places like Ukraine. As I thought about giving again, I was struck by how much organizations like this do to help others.

At that very moment, the phone rang — it was Sean. Hearing his voice instantly eased my worry.

"Mom, I'm OK," he said. "It's been rough, but I'm getting by."

He paused for a moment, his voice filled with surprise, and continued, "You won't believe what just happened. I was walking down the mountain trying to get a signal, and a van appeared out of nowhere. It was a group of men who were in the area trying to help people, sent by the Mennonite relief organization from Lancaster County, Pa."

He explained that the team had driven up the broken, debris-covered roads to his area. They came equipped with food, water and tools to help clear the blocked roads. Sean had led them back to his house, and they were working to make the road passable again.

It was an incredible coincidence. The very organization I had just been thinking about supporting was already on the ground, helping my son in his time of need. The team brought not just supplies, but the equipment and manpower necessary to clear the path, making sure Sean could get in and out of his home safely.

Sean and I both have roots in Lancaster, a place where the values of hard work and community run deep. And here were these selfless men and women, also from Lancaster County, serving far beyond their home to reach those in need — just as they've done across the world.

Their mission isn't just about donations; it's about action. It's about boots on the ground, equipment in hand and hearts full of compassion. They came not just to help, but to serve, and to restore hope. The good Lord's work, no doubt!

The experience was a powerful reminder of the immense value organizations like the Mennonite Disaster Service bring to communities. They don't just collect donations; they put those funds directly to work, providing hands-on assistance where it's needed most. Whether it's clearing roads in remote mountain areas or delivering aid across the globe, they are committed to helping people in real, tangible ways.

For my family, this was more than just a moment of relief — it was a clear example of how dedicated people can come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. The work they do is vital, and their ability to respond quickly to help those in need is truly inspiring.

Nancy Mowrer is a resident of Columbia.