In the wake of devastating floods that have ravaged southern West Virginia, faith community nurses are stepping up to provide vital support to affected residents in Mingo County. These nurses, who combine healthcare expertise with a compassionate, faith-driven approach, are going beyond the typical call of duty, offering both nursing care and emotional support to those impacted by the disaster.
In collaboration with local churches and community organizations, a regional team of faith community nurses trained by the West Virginia University School of Nursing is visiting flood-affected homes and shelters to offer assistance. They are providing healthcare services as well as listening to the concerns of those struggling with the aftermath of the floods, helping people process trauma, and offering prayers and spiritual comfort.
“Our mission is to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the community,” said Dr. Angel Smothers, Director of the Faith Community Nursing program at the WVU School of Nursing. “We are called to go where the need is greatest and be a source of healing during times of crisis.”
The faith community nurses have been working tirelessly, coordinating efforts with local emergency responders, social services, and mental health professionals to ensure that residents receive comprehensive care. From distributing medical supplies to helping coordinate transportation to medical appointments, their presence has offered hope during a difficult time.
“The emotional toll of a disaster like this is often overlooked, but it’s just as important to address as physical health needs,” said Stephanie Hatfield, RN, Mingo County Faith Community Nurse.
“Our goal is to ensure people are not only physically cared for but also have the emotional and spiritual support they need to rebuild their lives,” added Brandi Steele, RN, Mingo County Faith Community Nurse.
The nurses’ efforts are made possible through partnerships with local faith-based organizations, which have opened their doors as emergency shelters and distribution points. These collaborations highlight the strength and unity of Mingo County’s faith community, which has long been a pillar of support for its residents. As recovery efforts continue, faith community nurses are committed to staying involved, providing long-term care, and helping residents heal both physically and emotionally.
Emergency supplies for the faith community nurses has been made possible by donations from the Hutson Family Foundation and the Pallottine Foundation of Huntington. Donations supporting the work of Faith Community Nurses are awarded via the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.
“These efforts are made possible by the teamwork of our Mingo County Faith Community Nursing team,” said Amber Marcum, LPN, Mingo County Faith Community Nurse.
For more information about how to support the faith community nurses ongoing recovery efforts in Mingo County, please contact Dr. Angel Smothers at asmothers@hsc.wvu.edu.
-WVU-
CONTACT: Wendy Holdren
Director of Communications and Marketing
WVU School of Nursing
304-581-1772; wendy.holdren@hsc.wvu.edu
