Nearly a week after catastrophic flooding inundated Copperhill, Tennessee, volunteers from the Priceville Church of Christ crossed state lines to provide essential relief. Minister Erick Chaney explained that several North Alabama congregations pooled resources to deliver 144 cases of water to the Ocoee Church of Christ in Copperhill, where the supplies were handed directly to families affected by the disaster.
Community churches unite for relief
Madison Utilities contributed one pallet of water, and two additional North Alabama congregations added further donations. The volunteers also distributed cleaning supplies and other materials supplied by a Nashville‑based Church of Christ disaster‑relief organization, ensuring that basic necessities reached those whose homes and businesses were damaged.
Chaney noted that many flooded areas still lack power or safe drinking water. Even where water is available, it may not be safe to consume, prompting the need for fresh, clean cases. Some families have been forced to find temporary shelter elsewhere, while local businesses, including a furniture store, suffered water damage to inventory.
“It’s tough for those small business owners, especially that suffer damage and they’ll have to rebuild and restart, because their products are ruined,” Chaney said.
The volunteers plan to stay engaged with the Ocoee Church of Christ as cleanup and rebuilding efforts continue. Chaney indicated that the group expects to return to Morgan County over the weekend and will remain in contact with the Tennessee congregation to assess ongoing needs.
Faith‑driven service
When asked why a group from Alabama traveled to help, Chaney emphasized the desire to share their faith and serve neighbors. “When we have the resources and the abilities to do that, we want to be accountable for our Lord and say we’re trying to help our communities,” he explained. “We’re trying to help our neighbors.”
The response underscores a broader tradition of faith‑based organizations stepping in during emergencies, offering both material aid and spiritual encouragement. By mobilizing resources quickly, the Priceville volunteers exemplify how local churches can act as lifelines for neighboring communities in crisis.
As the floodwaters recede, the focus will shift to rebuilding homes, restoring businesses and ensuring that families have safe water and shelter. The collaborative effort between Alabama and Tennessee churches highlights the power of shared faith and neighborly responsibility in overcoming natural disasters.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
