Kentucky Flood Relief

Hi,

My name is Janton Barrineau. I live in Summerville, SC. I'm originally from Kentucky. Most of my formative years were spent in Southeastern Kentucky, specifically Hazard.

I'm sure many of you have seen the devastation in National News feeds from Kentucky and many of the surrounding areas that are under water. For years, my Dad pastored there. I know these families. I’ve spoken with men who’ve taken their fishing boats into flooded hollers to rescue people from roof tops. I simply couldn’t see these pictures and read of this devastation without doing something for a place I used to call home.

Over the past 48 hours, I’ve spoken directly with family and friends as well as some local Pastors who are on the ground actively helping flood victims. "The devastation and human toll is overwhelming,” said Pastor Mike Smith of Maple Street Church. "People are in real need, now. Many are without power and water. Some services won't be restored for several days. Others have lost everything they have, and some have even lost their lives." As of this morning, rescue efforts are still in force with the official count approaching 25 deaths.

These are people that I know and love. Real people, now in real crisis. Please join me in answering their pleas for help. All funds will immediately go directly to assist the people and families during their time of need. Time is of the essence.

Growing up in Hazard, I too experienced the devastating power of rising water. In 1977, the Kentucky River rose 7 ft. into the basement of our home. Our church had four feet of flood mud, and I spend days with a shovel alongside other good men and women cleaning our house of worship. Our goal is to raise $10,000 to send directly to these families. Three things are needed — cash, workers, and water. Anything you can give will go 100% into the hands of people who are homeless and hurting. Thank you in advance for your help. Any contribution will make a difference!

Donations to this campaign will be distributed to the flood victims in and around Hazard, Kentucky, by Pastor Mike Smith of the Maple Street Church of God in Hazard. I am a personal friend of Mike’s, and I am in touch with him regularly. For 20 years, Pastor Mike has worked in this area. I will ensure that all donations which flow through his hands are contributed directly to flood victims in Hazard. As you can imagine, the need is far greater than our goal of $10,000. If we exceed this goal, all additional monies will also be distributed through Pastor Mike to this community's men, women, and families.