Natural disasters tend to bring out the best and the worst in human nature. In the past weeks we have seen some of the best in sacrificial actions, generous responses and compassionate care for victims of recent hurricanes. By helicopter, foot, ATV’s and mules . . . Supplies are reaching isolated homes in the mountains of North Carolina, where floods washed away roads and bridges.
In the midst of heartbreaking loss, helpers are doing all they can, for those living on the edge. It is something we see after tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires and floods. There is in most of us, a need to do what we can to alleviate suffering and loss.
Which is why it has been so disheartening to witness, former President Trump misleading victims of these disasters, on the help which is there for them. Since hurricane Helena arrived and tore a 500-Mile path of destruction through our southern states, followed quickly by hurricane Milton, former president Trump has been the source of conspiracy stories related to help.
Among other misinformation, the former president has claimed that all of FEMA’s funding has been spent on immigrants so there is nothing left for victims of these hurricanes, that Republican areas aren’t being helped and that FEMA limits the dollar amount of help to $750. The mixed messages people are getting are confusing, and at times keeping people from the very help that has been set aside for them.
If this were just an academic exercise, it would be bad enough. College kids are good at tracking down truth. Instead former president Donald Trump is being dishonest about the financial help available through FEMA, to people living through the trauma of devastating hurricanes and floods. This is a time when all politicians need to set aside political differences, and give out accurate information. So those living the disaster have access to resources available to them.
One wonders at the sickness of a mind, which would prey on suffering, vulnerable people. The election is only weeks away. I hope as people decide who to vote for, they remember that one candidate is willing to deceive the most vulnerable people, in a time of disaster, to score political points. Caring little, or not at all, for those, who are hurt in the process.
“Though you would frustrate the counsel of the poor, the Lord is their refuge.” Psalm 14:6
How to apply for Assistance and Sorting out rumors from facts.
CNN story on FEMA Aid
NPR Story about funding FEMA Funding
Republican Congressman Chuck Edwards – Debunking Helene Response
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A Pastor's Heart 
Wonderful article. I too have problems with so many lies. People need to know the help available to them. Thank you for posting that information.
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Thanks. I hope we reach a time when we hold facts in common again.
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My prayer is that there are more folks who don’t want him back in power yet are sadly keeping silent out of concern/fear… interesting times.
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❤❤❤
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Between Social Media which isolates and “gives permission” to folks to say things that their mother would wash out their mouths with soap for saying… the pandemic isolation… plus reality TV… hello fractured society.
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None of that was a good recipe for a healthy society. We have too many who are wanting to vote people off the island, instead of welcoming the stranger and loving the neighbor.
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You are so right! And on top of that, the “militia” morons threatened FEMA workers… I. Just. Don’t. Get. It!!
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It’s really strange, but I suppose that it represent the fracturing of our society, and the ease that social media can distort reality.
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I don’t think President Trump is giving out misinformation from what people on the ground have said in nearly 50 YouTube videos we have seen from people on the ground (NOT stuff on CNN and other mainstream media). Of course, government websites will claim they have resources, but when people apply the information that comes back is that they have to QUALIFY for these loans. People are upset! This finally got the Biden Administration’s attention, and that is why NOW many more millions have been earmarked for assistance.
The truth was the government wasn’t there ASAP as they should have been. And illegals ARE getting thousands of dollars in free stuff and housing. That cannot be denied.
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I think anyone who has been waiting for help, in the aftermath of this devastating Hurricane that ripped apart the mountains in North Carolina, would feel help is slow in coming. The You Tube videos you have been watching, must be tearing at your heartstrings. Seeing the devastation there these many weeks after the hurricane hit, it looks like it will take a long, long time for life to have any sense of normality. This summer there was a flood close to my sister’s home. It took out a road, and was rebuilt within a few weeks. But, it was only one road where equipment and skilled people available to fix. I think of the enormity of need facing all the groups trying to repair the damage in North Carolina. Which reminds me to pray for their healing and recovery.
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Wonderful post and really helpful links!
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Thanks Maren.
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