Knott County, Kentucky is witnessing a heartwarming moment as 18 families affected by the devastating floods of 2022 receive new homes just in time for the holiday season. The organization Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian international disaster relief agency, dedicated these brand-new residences at no cost during a ceremony held on December 15, 2023. This initiative marks a crucial step in the ongoing recovery of a region still grappling with the aftermath of the disaster that claimed over 40 lives and obliterated entire communities.
The dedication took place in the Chestnut Ridge neighborhood, where volunteers handed over keys to 13 families. The remaining five families are set to move into their homes the following week. Following the floods, Samaritan’s Purse deployed a team to the region, assisting more than 600 families as they worked to recover from the extensive damage to their homes. Caseworkers focused on prioritizing the uninsured and the most vulnerable residents for the new housing opportunities.
“This shows it can get better. Right here,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, reflecting on the impact of the project. The new homes, constructed on higher ground, are fully furnished and provided free of charge to the families. Local donors, including the Craft family, played a vital role in making this project possible.
For many residents, the arrival of new appliances signifies more than just material goods; it symbolizes a significant easing of burdens. Paul Johnson, one of the new homeowners, expressed his excitement about the new laundry facilities, saying, “No more laundromat.”
Johnson, who had lived in a camper for three years following the flood, shared the challenges he faced during the recovery process. “It’s been tough. You never know… every day is something different, a new struggle,” he noted. The winter months were particularly difficult for him, as he battles a lung condition that complicates his health during cold weather.
Moreover, losing permanent housing resulted in Johnson being removed from the lung transplant waiting list, a requirement for candidates. His new home signifies more than just shelter; it represents stability and the possibility of rejoining the transplant list. “This exceeds anything I expected. It’s really beautiful,” he remarked, highlighting the profound meaning of having a place to call home.
As these families settle into their new residences, the phrase “home for the holidays” resonates with renewed significance. “I’m blessed, I’m excited, and I hope this will be a new start for me and my momma,” Johnson concluded, embodying the hope and gratitude felt by many in the region.
The dedication of these homes not only provides physical shelter but also offers a renewed sense of hope and community for those affected by the 2022 floods. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the people in eastern Kentucky and the collective effort to rebuild their lives.
