Indirect contact has been made with Cayman and with Abaco.
Frank Sarver talked with Greta Culmer in Marsh Harbour last night and there is massive damage, but no loss of life.This is the first call in since last Friday when they were hit. We have money on the way, and have sent more to the Church in Nassau to send food, water and tarps in by mail boats to Abaco and Freeport. The big shipment to Freeport is due on the 10th. It had to be diverted to New Orleans due to the Hurricane. It contains 38,000 lbs. of food and water.(2100 Gallons).We hate the delay, but it will all be needed when it arrives. Freeport faired better this time. There is a lot of flooding, roof damage is more pronounced, but new power poles stayed up as the storm moved a little north of the Island and left them on the left side.(This is the best side of a Hurricane). Supplies are getting low, and Nassau is doing all they can to supply water and food by boat.
Through Kevin Higginson (His mother was born and raised in Cayman) in Ft. Myers we contacted some Cayman people in Miami who got us a cell phone number in Cayman. Brother and sister Bothwell are fine, they have gone to Miami area for a medical check up .We are trying now to find where they are staying. Their nephew works with the man I contacted. The Island of Grand Cayman is devastated. Some say that between 60% and 90% of the homes were severely damaged or destroyed.Gusts of 200 mph were reported and heavily braced door were bowing in. Several in the Church there lost their homes. Three feet of salt water came into the Church building and those who were sheltering there climbed into the attic for safety. We are trying to get them some help as soon as possible.
The situation in Florida continues grim. Their are still thousands homeless, power is slowly being restored in some areas, some areas are badly flooded and isolated. Traffic lights are out, curfews are in place and some looting is taking place. Hurricanes bring out the best in some and the worst in others. FEMA and others are still helping with water, ice and tarps. Many shelters are still open and alternate housing for those who lost homes is scarce. One of the congrgations who helps us in teh Bahamas lost their building completely.
Many of you have responded generously and we are most thankful. Food, water and tarps is still the main thing. Your gifts of money and your prayers are a great encouragement to those who are still reeling in shock.
Checks can be made to Bahama Mission Church of Christ and mailed:
David Caskey-Missions, Gulf Coast Church of Christ
3825 McGregor Blvd.
Ft. Myers, Florida 33901.
These funds are overseen by the Gulf Coast Elders, and Danny Osborn CPA is keeping the account.
Recovery is a long process for many. Keep us all in your prayers as we strive to help those most affected.
david
Bahama Mission Home Page
http://www.flyingpreacher.com/
Mission Contact
David Caskey
Webmaster
Jerry Pickup
http://www.jpickup.com/
