Between July 25th and July 30th, 2022, several complexes of training thunderstorms developed that brought heavy rain, deadly flash flooding, and devastating river flooding to eastern Kentucky and central Appalachia. These thunderstorms, at times, caused rainfall rates in excess of 4″/hr across complex terrain that led to widespread devastating impacts. While it did not rain continuously during this 4-day stretch, the overwhelming amounts of rain and resultant flooding led to 44 deaths and widespread catastrophic damage. Entire homes and parts of some communities were swept away by flood waters, leading to costly damage to infrastructure in the region. Over 600 helicopter rescues and countless swift water rescues by boat were needed to evacuate people who were trapped by the quickly-rising flood waters.
As of January 2023, there were 262 families still living in the state-provided campers. About 850 locals were still displaced. Nearly 17 percent of households live on less than $1,000 a month.
A BDM rebuilding site will be open from September 10-November 18 to serve in Eastern Ky. BDM volunteers will be housed at the Hampton United Methodist Church located in Campton, Ky.
BDM will serve qualified families identified by case managers from the Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church/Eastern Kentucky Disaster Response Ministry.
Media Coverage and Videos of the Flooding Event and Aftermath
https://www.newsnationnow.com/weather/kentucky-flood-victims/
Find the most up-to-date schedule here
Housing
Volunteer housing is located at the Hampton United Methodist Church . Volunteer bunk rooms, dining and the common gathering area are located in the Family Life Center. There is a shower house as well as a shower trailer. Project leaders will be housed in the parsonage on the property. Job sites will be 25-45 minutes’ drive away.
Hampton United Methodist Church, Family Life Center
17 Peggs Fork Rd, Campton, KY 41301
Mailing address
Hampton UMC
ATTN: BDM/recipient name
PO Box 888
Jackson, KY 41339
Contact
Email: BDMeasternky@gmail.com
Meals
Meals are prepared in the facility kitchen. Volunteer groups are asked to include an assistant household leader/cook. Volunteers will be asked to help with kitchen cleanup.
Work
The type of work in Eastern Ky. will be primarily repairs and rebuilds. There may be an opportunity to work on some new builds. Tools, vehicles, and leadership are provided.
Travel
Groups must send registration forms and mode of travel plans to BDMeasternky@gmail.com at least 2 weeks prior to your scheduled trip.
Upon arrival, BDM Project Leaders will welcome you and collect any incomplete paperwork. They will orient you to the project, covering such topics as house rules, work schedule, safety, tools, daily devotions, expectations, etc. Orientation does not begin until all participants arrive.
Driving
Arrival time for volunteers on Sunday evening will be between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm with volunteer groups having eaten supper BEFORE arrival at the housing facility. We recommend that you enjoy one of the many dining options along your route.
Driving directions
Driving directions can be obtained by reaching out to the BDM office.
