Serving in Times of Crisis: How Florida Baptists Respond to Disaster
Why I am proud to be a Florida Baptist
What do you do when a devastating natural disaster blows away everything you’ve ever known? Where do you turn for help and hope? While several charities and government agencies offer aid and support, one organization that has consistently served those in need for decades is Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR).
Who is Southern Baptist Disaster Relief?
Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) is a ministry powered by volunteers from 42 State Conventions, the Canadian Baptist Convention, and Send Relief. SBDR responds to crises by providing physical aid, emotional support, and the hope of Jesus Christ. With the motto "Bringing Help, Hope, and Healing," their mission is deeply rooted in the Gospel and the compassion of Christ. Inspired by scriptures like Matthew 10:42, SBDR volunteers serve communities in crisis, sharing Christ’s love while meeting urgent needs. By partnering with local churches, this ministry embodies Jesus' call to care for neighbors during times of disaster.
At the heart of SBDR’s mission are Christ-centered values, focusing on consistent faith, partnership, and effective action. Volunteers are encouraged to live out their faith both during disasters and in daily life, reflecting Christ’s love and character. SBDR works closely with local churches to support discipleship and ministry, recognizing the church’s critical role in God’s Kingdom. Through training, mentoring, and collaboration, SBDR empowers individuals to serve effectively, using their gifts to help those in need while advancing the Great Commission.
How to Serve and Give in Florida
Living in Florida, I’ve witnessed firsthand the remarkable work of the Florida chapter of Southern Baptist Disaster Relief. If you’re interested in getting involved or giving, there are several ways to make a difference. A wonderful place to start is by becoming a Day Volunteer. This option is ideal for those without formal training but who have a desire to help after a disaster. Whether you’re an individual or part of a church group, you can partner with Florida Baptist Disaster Relief by completing a few forms and joining the response efforts. It’s a flexible and impactful way to serve.
For a deeper level of involvement, you can become a credentialed volunteer. Florida Baptist Disaster Ministries offers both in-person and online training sessions from March to June each year. These sessions prepare volunteers for a variety of roles, including clean-up, food distribution, flood recovery, and chaplaincy. After completing a background check and training, you’ll be ready to serve when disaster strikes. You can also contribute financially by visiting their website and donating to support their mission. Whether through giving or volunteering, you can play a vital role in bringing help, hope, and healing to those in need across Florida.
Another Reason to Love being Southern Baptist
This is why I love the Southern Baptist Convention and the Florida Baptist Convention. We partner together to love and serve people, not just in words but in action. Our desire is to see our neighbors trust in Christ and find healing and hope, even amid tragedy. When you give to your local SBC church, you are supporting missions like Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, ensuring that we can continue to share the love of Christ and meet real needs in communities facing disaster. Together, we are making a difference, both spiritually and physically, for the glory of God.