Hurricane Helene unleashed its fury across South Carolina in the early hours of Friday, September 27th, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Among those impacted was a family under the care of the Connie Maxwell Family Care Program in Greenwood, South Carolina, who faced a terrifying ordeal when a tree crashed into their home during the storm.
McKenna, a dedicated single mother, was asleep with her five young children – one-year-old twins, a three-year-old, and an eight-year-old – when disaster struck at approximately 5 a.m. The sudden impact of a massive tree collapsing onto their residence shattered the morning calm and plunged them into a life-threatening situation. Diana Johnson, Director of Family Care at Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries, was promptly alerted to the emergency after reviewing security camera feeds. Responding immediately, Johnson arrived at the scene to find a flurry of emergency activity – ambulances, fire trucks, and first responders navigating the chaotic scene.
Upon reaching McKenna, Johnson witnessed firsthand the storm’s brutal impact. McKenna had sustained visible injuries, including a severe laceration on her face and a broken nose. In a moment of profound maternal instinct amidst the chaos, McKenna’s first words to Johnson were, “I don’t know, but will you take care of my babies?” While McKenna was rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention, Johnson swiftly ensured the safety of her children, removing them from the immediate danger.
Massive tree damage to a home supported by the Connie Maxwell Family Care Program after Hurricane Helene, highlighting the urgent need for family support and disaster relief.
Miraculous Escape from Hurricane’s Wrath
As emergency personnel meticulously cleared the debris, the extent of the family’s narrow escape became chillingly apparent. A colossal tree had penetrated directly into the family’s bedroom, the very space where McKenna and her three-year-old daughter had been sleeping. Her eight-year-old was sleeping on a pallet nearby. Recounting the terrifying event, McKenna explained, “I heard a noise, and when I woke up, I just felt it falling on me.” Despite the overwhelming chaos and the sheer force of the impact, miraculously, none of her children sustained any injuries. “Once I heard my toddler screaming, I knew she was okay,” McKenna shared, a testament to a mother’s unwavering concern even in the face of personal trauma.
Diana Johnson conveyed immense relief and thankfulness for the family’s safety. “We’re very thankful and blessed because the outcome could have been so much worse,” Johnson stated, emphasizing the element of divine protection with, “God is good.”
Danny Nicholson, President of Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries, reported that their facilities provide a home for 72 children. “All of our children are safe and all of our staff is safe. That’s what we’re thankful for,” Nicholson affirmed. He acknowledged that two buildings suffered structural damage during the hurricane but expressed confidence in their ability to rebuild stronger than before. Nicholson also extended heartfelt gratitude, “We’re so very thankful for South Carolina Baptists and the Disaster Relief teams because they’ve been working not just with us, but they’ve showed up all over South Carolina,” recognizing the widespread support in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
The Vital Role of the Family Care Program
The Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries’ Family Care program stands as a beacon of hope for single mothers like McKenna and their children. This comprehensive two-year initiative is meticulously designed to empower single mothers as they navigate the challenging journey of rebuilding their lives. Diana Johnson explained the program’s core mission: “We offer a network of resources to help these families heal and recover from difficult situations.” In the immediate aftermath of this hurricane, the program’s support has been indispensable, offering both practical assistance and emotional solace. “In this case, we are especially grateful for God’s protection over this family,” Johnson reiterated, highlighting the program’s role in safeguarding vulnerable families during times of crisis.
Danny Nicholson reflected on finding strength in faith during adversity. “In the midst of all this trouble, I thought that there is no resurrection without the cross,” he shared, finding a parallel between their current struggles and the promise of renewal. “What we walk through here will end up bringing glory to God.”
As McKenna and her children embark on the long road to recovery following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the entire Connie Maxwell community is uniting to provide unwavering support. This encompasses both practical aid to help them rebuild their home and lives, and sustained emotional support to help them heal and regain stability in the wake of this traumatic experience.
To extend hope and healing to families impacted by Hurricane Helene and support the Connie Maxwell Family Care Program, please visit scbaptist.org/give. Your generosity can make a tangible difference in the lives of those rebuilding after the storm.
