We are deeply concerned for those affected by Hurricane Helene and the devastation it has caused in so many communities. As we continue to pray for their safety and recovery, we also want to offer tangible ways to help. You can make a difference by donating to TN Disaster Relief (www.tndisasterrelief.org ), which is working directly with relief efforts on the ground, or by contributing much-needed items like food, water, and clothing. Below you will find more information on how to give in a tangible way. Together, we can support our neighbors and bring hope to those in need during this challenging time.
Donation of Needed Goods:
Below is a list of acceptable goods that can be donated. Please restrict your items to those listed.
The collection point for Madison-Chester & Crockett Association churches is: West Jackson Baptist Church, 580 Oil Well Road, Jackson.
The collections will be taken at the back of the church at the “Courts” entrance. Drop off of goods will start Thursday, October 3 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Drop off dates/times are Monday thru Thursday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and Fridays from 9:00 am to 12 noon.
We are planning on collecting goods until Tuesday, October 15, no later than 3:00 p.m.
Emergency Donations for Disaster Response
Many individuals and churches have called and asked what they can do to assist with the needs in times of need like we are now experiencing. Below are my suggestions for those who would like to help.
Cash and gift cards are the best way to help. Donate monetary contributions at http://tndisasterrelief.org/contributions/ or mail to TN Baptist Convention Bank Lockbox Service, PO Box 306339, Nashville, TN 37230-6339 earmarked for the specific disaster.
Donations policy can be found on the www.tndisasterrelief.org page.
Gift cards can be sent to the Missions Mobilization Center, 6434 John Hagar Rd., Mount Juliet, TN 37122 or dropped off at West Jackson Baptist Church October 3 – October 15. These are much easier to use to meet specific needs of a family.
However, we know that some want to help in a tangible way therefore, the following is a list of goods that will be accepted (locations to be TBD) for transport to the affected areas. There are two lists attached. Many times in the immediate aftermath of an event, towns are flooded with immediate response items. I encourage you to look not just in the short term, but also the long term and the needs that arise when people are trying to set themselves up in new housing accommodations. Please consider long term needs and not just immediate needs. Please note we are NOT accepting any used clothing. We will however accept new clothing with labels attached and in original packaging.
Any questions should be directed to the MMC at (615) 371-7926 or (615) 371-7927 or email us at wjones@tnbaptist.org or eholmes@tnbaptist.org
Emergency Immediate Aftermath of Donations of Goods
“Immediate Aftermath” items are usually needed in the weeks to a Month after a storm, after that please focus on the “Long Term” needs as people try and set up their homes again.
Clean up Supplies
- Box knives
- Hammers
- Flat pry bars
- Flat shovels
- Tyvek suits
- Wheelbarrows
- Rubber gloves
- Floor squeegees
- Wheelbarrows
- Large heavy-duty garbage bags
- Hoses
- Mosquito repellent
- Cleaning supplies
- Mops, brooms, buckets, squeegees
- Scoop shovels, rakes
- Safety glasses
- Leather gloves
- Long rubber gloves
- Mechanic type gloves
- Box knives
- Small scrub brushes
- Box fans
- Scoop shovels
- Push brooms
Paper Products
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
Personal Care Items
- Laundry detergent, fabric softener
- Dryer sheets
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap
- Deodorant, anti-perspirant
- Toothpaste, toothbrushes
- Feminine hygiene products
- Baby wipes
- Diapers
- Adult diapers
- Suntan Lotion SPF 30 or higher
- New hairbrushes
Perishable Items
- Baby formula/baby – Must be within date
- Gatorade/Powerade
- Individually wrapped snack foods with long-shelf life (no expired food)
- Food with long shelf life (no expired food)
Clothing
- Clothing – No Used Clothing
- New Underwear and bras- All sizes in original package.
- New Socks in all sizes
- New shoes, sneakers, and sandals
- New Adult clothing
- New Baby clothing
- New Children’s Clothing
Misc.
- Gift cards
All perishable items must be within the date and not expired.
We will not accept used clothing.
Disaster Long-term Recovery Donations
At the beginning of a disaster many people, churches, and organizations flock to meet the immediate need of those who have experienced a disaster. Often towns are overrun with donations and must spend time and manpower finding places to put everything and them find people to manage the flow of goods. I would like for us to think a little longer term. Think about what people would need to go back in and set up a house. Think about when you moved into your first home or got married, what were the things that you needed to fill out your home? That said, I want to suggest the following types of new items for you to consider:
Kitchen Set-up kits
- Pots and Pan set
- Skillet
- Silverware set 4 or 8 place settings
- Dishes set 4 or 8 place settings
- Drinking Cups
- Coffee cups
- Knives
- Potato peeler
- Pizza cutter
- Spatulas
- Serving spoons/utensils
- Dish Towels
- Dish Cloths
- Potholders/glove
- Small hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Serving bowls
- Pyrex dishes
- Storage dishes for Refrigerator
- Coffee maker???
- Cookie sheets
- Pizza sheet
- Can opener
Bath Essentials
- Bath Towel, Hand Towel and Washcloth sets.
- Bathmat sets
Bedroom Essentials
- Sheet sets
- King
- Queen
- Double
- Single
- Blankets
- Comforter Sets
- Wall clocks
Clothing – No Used Clothing
- New Underwear and bras- All sizes in original package.
- New Socks in all sizes
- New shoes, sneakers, slippers, and sandals
- New Adult clothing
- New Baby clothing
- New Children’s Clothing
Misc.
- Gift cards