Christian Appalachian Project springs into action after Kentucky floods

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — As first responders continue conducting search and rescue after nearly all of Kentucky’s 120 counties were hit with severe flooding, Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) is on standby, ready to do what they do best.

“We do truly believe that we are neighbors helping neighbors throughout the Commonwealth and that we come alongside of those families who’ve been impacted to say, we’re going to be there. We’re going to help you. You’re not alone,” said CAP’s director of communications, Tina Bryson.

Bryson said these floods hit particularly close to the organization’s service areas, where many of its employees and volunteers live.

“This is not just a disaster that CAP is responding to; these are their friends and family,” said Bryson.

But they’re not letting the flood waters and now snow stop them. CAP has already delivered almost 150 generators each to Clay and Perry counties.

These donations are part of their phased approach to helping flood victims.

“The easiest thing to do is to make a financial donation. And the reason for that is it allows for you to be nimble. CAP can then meet the immediate needs that people have. But as the needs change, you can change with that,” said Bryson.

CAP encourages people to contact the Kentucky Flooding Cleanup Hotline at 606-268-0896. Bryson said that contacting the hotline gets people on a list to be helped by response groups.

With homes wiped out, businesses destroyed, and streets impassable, there are clear needs that must be met. But there’s one that Bryson said is often overlooked, and it’s something you can’t see.

“For many people who just lived through the 2022 flood. This would have been a very traumatic event. Many people suffer from PTSD from having gone through something like that,” said Bryson. “So even just hearing water rushing or hearing all the rain that comes down can be triggering to people.”

Mental health resources are also services CAP provides.

Although the future remains uncertain as many Kentuckians work to build their lives back, one thing is certain: CAP will be there every step of the way.

“We’re going to be there until the job is done. So as long as people need help, CAP will be there,” said Bryson.

To find out more about CAP or to make a financial contribution, click here.