Three years after catastrophic flooding in eastern Kentucky resulted in over 40 fatalities and widespread destruction, 18 families in Knott County are receiving new homes through the efforts of Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian international disaster relief organization. The dedication ceremony took place on December 15, 2023, in the Chestnut Ridge neighborhood, marking a significant step in the region’s long recovery journey. Volunteers handed over keys to 13 families, while another five families are set to move into their homes the following week.
The devastating floods of 2022 left entire communities in ruins, prompting Samaritan’s Purse to mobilize a team to assist more than 600 families in their recovery efforts. The organization prioritized helping the uninsured and most vulnerable residents by identifying recipients for new homes. Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, emphasized the importance of hope in the recovery process, stating, “People here are used to being beaten down; they don’t have hope. They don’t think things can get better. This shows it can get better. Right here.”
New Homes Built for Resilience and Stability
The newly constructed homes are situated on higher ground, fully furnished, and provided at no cost to the families. Local donors, including the Craft family, played a crucial role in making this project possible. For many residents, even a new appliance symbolizes a significant relief from the burdens they have faced since the floods.
Paul Johnson, one of the new homeowners, expressed his excitement during a tour of his house, highlighting the presence of a laundry room equipped with a washer and dryer. “I’m so excited about that. No more laundromat,” he remarked. Following the flood, Johnson and his mother, Joyce, found themselves living in a camper for three years, facing harsh winters and ongoing challenges due to Paul’s lung condition.
“It’s been tough; you never know… you have to adjust your life. Every day is something different, a new struggle,” Paul reflected. He faced a setback when he was removed from the lung transplant waiting list after losing permanent housing. For Paul, this new home represents more than just shelter; it embodies stability, dignity, and the possibility of rejoining the transplant list.
A New Beginning for Families
“This exceeds anything I expected. It’s really beautiful,” Paul said, highlighting the emotional impact of moving into a new home. The phrase “home for the holidays” takes on profound meaning for these families as they begin a new chapter in their lives.
“I’m blessed, I’m excited, and I hope this will be a new start for me and my momma,” Paul Johnson concluded. As these families settle into their new homes, the community of Knott County continues to rebuild and recover from the challenges posed by the devastating floods.
With continued support from organizations like Samaritan’s Purse and generous local donors, the path to recovery is becoming clearer for those affected, instilling hope for a brighter future.
