Responding to Hurricane Helene: Mr.'s Causey's Home
Mr. Causey, an elderly gentleman caring for his paraplegic son, lived peacefully in the mountains of North Carolina. But when Hurricane Helene struck, the unthinkable happened. To prevent nearby dams from bursting, an excess release of water widened a small river in front of his home by more than 100 feet. The water rose over 40 feet, flooding his property and submerging his home under more than 5 feet of water.
In the chaos, Mr. Causey and his son were forced upstairs, and with the help of a scissor lift, they managed to get his son to safety. But the damage was devastating: their home was destroyed, vehicles swept away, cherished motorcycles gone, and multiple outbuildings washed completely off the property.
News of Mr. Causey’s loss spread quickly. The Gathering, a local church in Asheville, NC, stepped forward to help. Their volunteers arrived first to muck out and dry the home, preparing the way for Fearless Works. Churches from around the country sent volunteers to join in the work, demonstrating the strength of the Church united.
The team carried out complete electrical reconstruction and installed brand-new plumbing throughout the home. They replaced drywall, insulation, and finishes, while also building modern bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen with new cabinets, counters, and stainless-steel appliances. Every room received new flooring and doors, and the entrances were widened to allow wheelchair access, ensuring that his son could move freely and safely.
In just 21 days of construction, the home was ready. Finishing touches followed shortly after, and soon Mr. Causey and his son moved back into their home at zero cost to them. Where despair once lived, restoration took its place. Mr. Causey and his son now live in a safe, fully restored home designed not only to meet their needs but to give them dignity and peace.
The Gathering walked with the family every step of the way, offering prayer, care, and encouragement. They reminded Mr. Causey that this wasn’t simply about rebuilding a house, this was about God’s love, poured out through His people.
Mr. Cousey reflected on the experience saying,
This family was made whole again through the love of Christ and the support of His Church.