Sheri Mathews and Roy Lee, co-coordinators for Volunteers in Mission and Disaster Response (VIM/DR), and Gayle Fiser of Pinnacle View UMC have been working with the American Red Cross and other agencies to provide comfort, recovery, and resources. VIM/DR, along with other organizations, have tables set up at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Decatur, AR to aid those affected by the tornadoes.
Sheri noticed that many people cry when they visit Gayle and Roy’s table.
Gayle explained that after she and Roy assess the damage and needs and determine how VIM/DR can help, Gayle asks about their pets and gives them a pet prayer blanket if needed. Talking about their pets usually brings a lot of emotions, especially when they are given blankets that have been blessed.
One man living in his car with his mountain dog, Buddy, got choked up when Gayle gave him a pet prayer blanket so that Buddy could have a bed.
They’ve noticed that pets have been stressed, clingy, and won’t eat. One woman said that her seven cats, who were in her house when the tornado came through, won’t come into the home now. Another man’s miniature pony died during the tornado.
Gayle is working with Melissa McMath Hatfield, a certified canine behavioral consultant, to create a follow-up webinar about stressed pets after a disaster, which will be recorded and available for churches and disaster relief groups in the future.
The American Red Cross of Arkansas shared on its social media that its partnership with the Arkansas United Methodist VIM/DR “illustrates the power of collaboration to bring recovery to those affected by the storm.”
Learn more about the Pinnacle View UMC Pet Ministry.
Learn more about Volunteers in Mission and Disaster Response.