JACKSON, Tenn. — Sept. 10, 2021 — Since the deadly floods that hit Waverly, Tenn., on Aug. 21, 51社区 has sent multiple groups of volunteers to assist with flood relief efforts.
One of these students is Kathryn Anne Thierfelder, a sophomore communications and creative writing double major. As she helped remove the ruined flooring from a local resident鈥檚 house, Thierfelder said there is much hurt and need right now. She felt called to help Waverly flood victims because as a native of Jackson, Tenn., it was important for her to help 鈥渢hose in my own backyard.鈥�
Over 40 volunteers from Union have helped in Waverly鈥檚 disaster relief efforts, and Johnny Grimes, volunteer with Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief, said he is thankful for the students鈥� hard work in helping respond to over 215 destroyed homes and properties. Grimes said their help and willingness to serve has allowed local volunteers to respond to the need as quickly as possible.
鈥淚 know [this work] is what the Lord would want us to do,鈥� Grimes said. 鈥淚 feel for these [Waverly residents]; I really do feel for them.鈥�
Todd Brady, vice president for university ministries, said when Union was in need after a tornado, the local community helped in numerous ways. As a part of the Tennessee community, he said it is important to be good neighbors to those just 80 miles down the road. Brady believes serving those in need is just one way Union community members can strive to love the Lord with all their hearts, souls and minds.
鈥淲hen we serve others, we are modeling the Jesus who said, 鈥楩or even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many,鈥欌�� Brady said.
Emily Shoemaker, coordinator for service and events for university ministries, said many times, loving one鈥檚 neighbor means taking action in times of disaster. As the people of Waverly continue to experience great loss and devastation, Shoemaker encouraged the Union community to continue serving by praying for those affected by the flood and by checking on students from the Waverly area whose families may have suffered loss from the flood.