Biloxi Trip: Day 6

Today we split into three different groups: Eric & Christopher went to East Biloxi to do some drywalling. Keith B., and Hunter applied the second coat of mud to Angelina's house. And Keith S., Robert, and I went back to Gulfport with two men from California to do some carpentry. Our group had the least productive day, for reasons you can ask us when we get back. However, we did have the opportunity to work with Franklin Graham's Samaritan's Purse. They're using a United Methodist camp for a materials distribution center. Literally they have virtually all the material a person needs to build a house—from studs, nails, concrete block to electrical wire and hot water heaters, they have it. All the material has been donated, and is simply given away to people who qualify. It is yet another testament to the faithfulness of God's people.

There's still a lot of work to do here, and there are not enough skilled workers, or workers who have a desire to learn carpentry, drywalling, electrical, plumbing and so on. I think the greatest burden is that on the permanent volunteers, like Bob Bolitho. After two years, he says, it has taken a toll. That's got to be true across the board. Samaritan's Purse is ending its Biloxi operation in June, which will have a crushing impact on the people who otherwise can't afford to rebuild. The people who need these services the most are those that are the poorest and weakest among us—usually the elderly, single mothers, and widows. They truly have no recourse but to rely on the charity and mercy of Christians who give there time and money. It's been two years since Katrina, and it's not an exaggeration to say that only about 20 percent has been rebuilt, and that may be high. Of course, a lot of work remains to be done. God willing, we'll be down here again.

We're going to do a couple more hours of work in the morning. We're hoping to go to a local Cajun restaurant for lunch, and then head out for Nashville. Where we hope to be by about 8:00. We'll then leave for Toledo, and should arrive early afternoon, assuming we get out early. Thank you for your prayers. See you all Sunday.