Guest Column By CP Foster – Words from Westfield

In August remnants of hurricane Debbie dumped a huge amount of rain in the Cowanesque Valley in Tioga, Pennsylvania. This was very similar to the Schoharie Valley flood in 2011. Debris built up along the Cowanesque River was also a contributing factor. Flow was restricted in areas and the river was like a tidal wave coming through parts of the poorest section of town. The water was above the loading dock at our local Agway store and their mill was decimated and will not reopen.

FEMA declared it a disaster and had office space in town thru November 13th, 2024 doing what FEMA does. I may not be able to accurately describe what FEMA does but I do know that God worked through many of our local churches, first responders, NGO’s and para church organizations. Region 8 of FCFI was one of these organizations that responded quickly to the need and delivered their shower trailer from Southwest Illinois to Westfield with the help of volunteer drivers. Volunteers from FCFI Pennsylvania chapters are now doing a much needed refurbishing of the trailer, preparing it for its next deployment. Disaster recovery goes through some specific stages from the immediate arrival of first responders to the long term rebuilding efforts that may take years. Westfield is in this last stage with most immediate needs taken care of with the exception of permanent heating units in some homes. Thankfully God has blessed us with lots of wood and many homes have at least a small wood stove to heat with until the forced air systems can be replaced.

In HIS Service is a local Christian based nonprofit which partners with organizations with similar values such as FCFI. They have replaced over 50 water heaters and helped organize volunteers to feed a hungry town during the cleanup process. Being under local oversight, In HIS Service, has partnered with local churches and is committed to serving the community for many years to come as our Lord directs. We as a community and organization understand the importance of prayer and ask for your most fervent and continued prayer support. The possibility also exists for short weekend mission trips to help with interior work during the winter months.

May God richly Bless you and your families.