Jay Blough writes:
Oklahoma MDS has been in Avant, OK for over a year working to rebuild the community. We are now suspending the Avant project. Hopefully the people there have been encouraged to carry on as a community. Disasters can bring communities together as they work through the common goal of recovery. Oklahoma MDS's experience is sometimes difficult as volunteers and funding are not always available. It has been a more difficult time because of COVID 19. By the Grace of God none of our volunteers in Avant have been affected. The board would like to say thank you and may God bless you for helping on many of the projects in Avant. Oklahoma MDS would also like to say thank you to the citizens of Avant who supported the project. This includes the provisions of housing, food, volunteer labor, and other behind the scenes help. Bill and Betty Mast have shown much love and concern for the many needs of Avant.
The last project on Thursday and Friday will be to trench electric, sewer, and water lines to a 15x35 building that was moved last week.
What's next? I am constantly being made aware of more storm damage jobs in Kingfisher, Ponca City, McCalester, Tulsa, and NE Oklahoma. Most of the jobs have been funded and assessed. Let Oklahoma MDS konw if you are willing to volunteer your time.
Bi-national and Regional MDS has started a campaign to build and improve the Church Contact Person (CCP) concept. They have sent their first newsletter to all known CCPs. If your church does not have a CCP please let the board know. We will be glad to call and make arrangements to send information and train whoever would be willing to serve as a CCP. One of the most important functions of the CCP is to work with MDS leaderhip and local congregations to get information to the local churches of disaster needs and work with the volunteer base at their church.
MDS encourages churches to look for local projects to help those in need. Oklahoma MDS has tool trailers and some funding to assist in these kinds of projects.
Finally, I encourage everyone to use caution when traveling and while in public gatherings -- WEAR THE MASK!
Thank you,
Jay Blough
Co-Chair Oklahoma MDS
