Liberty University takes action to mobilize disaster relief teams and send needed supplies in wake of Hurricane Helene

In response to the recent devastation left by Hurricane Helene, Liberty University is working to mobilize disaster relief teams and send much-needed supplies to heavily impacted areas.

The teams will consist of Liberty students and advisers who will partner with Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Blessing.

“At Liberty University, we are mourning with those who mourn, and we are praying for those who have been devastated by Hurricane Helene. It is in times of crisis that we must put our faith into service,” said Liberty Chancellor Jonathan Falwell. “Our students are stepping up to assist with disaster relief, clean-up, and providing hope and encouragement through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our LU Send program is proactively mobilizing our students to serve and minister as true Champions for Christ.”

These trips, sponsored by the LU Serve Now program, will each include 10 students and two trip leaders. Each trip will prioritize assisting homeowners with debris clean up, mud outs, and roof tarping, as well as meeting spiritual and emotional needs. Volunteers will also remain ready to meet any other need that may present itself in the coming days.

“As followers of Christ, we are called to serve one another with the same compassion and love that Christ has shown us. This is where Liberty University students can be the hands and feet of Jesus in these locations,” said Liberty President Dondi E. Costin. “This is more than just disaster relief—it’s the opportunity to demonstrate Christ’s love in our actions and make a lasting impact in these communities.”

Liberty’s three teams will travel to Boone, N.C., (Oct. 13-19); Valdosta, Ga., (Oct. 20-26); and Perry, Fla., (Oct. 20-26). Before Liberty’s trip to Georgia, the university is sending a trailer with 22 pallets of bottled water to Anchor Faith Church, where it will be distributed to those in the surrounding community.

“We are devastated by the loss of life and destruction that numerous communities have experienced from Hurricane Helene,” Senior Director of LU Serve Chad Nelson said. “So many people have been impacted, both near and far. We pray for these communities and the volunteers and emergency personnel who are responding.”

The university has set up a dedicated giving portal for Hurricane Helene. All funds raised will go entirely toward relief efforts, whether for much-needed supplies or mobilizing disaster response teams.

LU Serve exists to Train Champions for Christ by providing engaging educational and ministry experiences for students. This is accomplished through intentional partnerships with organizations that embrace and support Liberty University’s mission and purpose. LU Serve provides meaningful service opportunities locally and abroad, including domestic and international humanitarian aid and disaster relief trips (LU Serve Now). For more information, email luserve@liberty.edu.