Pine Lake Fellowship Camp (Meridian, MS) hosted evacuees over a three week period following the destruction caused by Hurricane Ida on August 29. After Ida hit, it was obvious that the storm damage was far greater than anticipated. Most evacuees had only packed for two nights expecting to go home immediately after Ida passed! All evacuee homes were without power, some roofs were severely damaged and caused internal damage, but there were many feelings of helplessness and anxiety. So, any previous lodging fee was waived, and we moved around existing reservations so that they could stay for as long as needed. Over the course of three weeks, 35 people stayed at Pine Lake. Some stays lasted only 4 nights, most 10, and others 21. A few evacuees had been to camp many times and several were new to camp within the last year as part of a guest group. Others were neighbors, friends, or in-laws who networked or tagged along to get out of Ida’s destructiveness. The group was made up of several segments/families from different parts of New Orleans and St. Charles Parish. There was a community that formed who supported one another through grief of damaged homes and the unknown.
Even in the midst of the chaos and unknown of what was going on back home, Pine Lake was a refuge where there was no immediate concern about food, shelter, or air conditioning. While overlooking the lake from the Lodge porch, one first time guest said he was so eager to get home while being displaced and caring for his elderly parents & mother in law over the last 6 days. “But now that I’m here, I don’t really want to leave! That’s the peace and renewal that the Holy Spirit can bring to even the most chaotic of situations.
So many supporters “Answered the Call” when you contributed gift cards, provided meals, & donated to PLFC utility expenses during those three weeks in September.
Give a contribution to our “Answer the Call” campaign as we celebrate people answering God’s call to draw closer to him at Pine Lake!
Read more about our “Answer the Call” Campaign!
