‘Living Proof That God Exists’: Samaritan’s Purse Brings Hope to Wisconsin Tornado Survivors
In the aftermath of devastating tornadoes that tore through parts of Wisconsin, hundreds of volunteers with Samaritan’s Purse have traveled from across the country to help families begin the difficult process of rebuilding. Armed with chainsaws, work gloves, and a willingness to serve, these volunteers are clearing fallen trees, removing debris, repairing damaged homes, and offering encouragement to people whose lives changed in a matter of minutes.
“This morning, we were with a family where the … wife and mother of the family was trapped in her basement for several hours,” Samaritan’s Purse Vice President of North American Disaster Relief Jason Kimak said in an interview with The Christian Post.
An EF-3 tornado touched down in the vicinity of Appleton, Wisconsin, last Monday, prompting Wisconsin’s Democratic Gov. Tony Evers to declare a state of emergency in the hard-hit counties of Forest, Outagamie, Vilas and Winnebago.
For many survivors, the greatest impact has not simply been the physical assistance, but the compassion shown by complete strangers motivated by their faith in Jesus Christ. One homeowner described the volunteers as “living proof that God exists,” expressing gratitude for the love and kindness they experienced during one of the darkest moments of their lives.
Samaritan’s Purse, the international Christian relief organization led by Franklin Graham, has responded to disasters around the world for decades. Whether serving communities after hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, or tornadoes, the ministry combines practical disaster relief with Christian compassion. Volunteers often begin each day in prayer before heading into neighborhoods to assist homeowners free of charge.
Kimak estimated that approximately 750 Samaritan’s Purse volunteers have shown up in Wisconsin from at least 23 states. He acknowledged that some of the volunteers are local and expressed gratitude that “they are coming out as neighbor helping neighbor.”
Beyond cutting trees or repairing roofs, they listen to stories, pray with families, and remind hurting people they are not alone. Their work reflects the biblical command to love our neighbors and care for those in need, demonstrating the Gospel through tangible acts of service.
Scripture consistently teaches that genuine faith produces visible action. James wrote, “Faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself” (James 2:17). Christians are not saved by good works, but those who have been transformed by God’s grace naturally desire to serve others.
Jesus Himself taught that when believers feed the hungry, welcome strangers, care for the sick, and help those in distress, they are serving Him (Matthew 25:35–40). Disaster relief ministries like Samaritan’s Purse provide a powerful example of faith expressed through sacrificial love.
Natural disasters often leave more than physical destruction. Families may lose treasured possessions, homes, vehicles, and cherished memories built over a lifetime. Many also struggle emotionally as they process fear, uncertainty, and grief. In those moments, the presence of compassionate volunteers can become a powerful reminder that hope still exists.
While government agencies and local emergency responders provide essential services, organizations like Samaritan’s Purse bring an additional ministry of prayer, encouragement, and spiritual care alongside physical assistance.
For Christians, stories like these also serve as a reminder that every believer has opportunities to be the hands and feet of Christ. Most people will never deploy to a tornado zone, but everyone can serve someone in need. Encouraging a neighbor, preparing a meal for a struggling family, visiting someone who is lonely, volunteering at church, supporting disaster relief efforts, or simply praying faithfully for those who are hurting are all meaningful expressions of Christ’s love.
Jesus told His disciples:
“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)
In a culture often filled with division and discouragement, hundreds of volunteers quietly serving strangers without expecting anything in return offer a compelling testimony of the Gospel. Their actions remind us that Christian faith is not merely something we profess—it is something we live.
As Wisconsin communities continue the long road toward recovery, the work of Samaritan’s Purse stands as a powerful example of what happens when believers answer Christ’s call to love their neighbors. Long after the headlines fade, the compassion shown through ordinary acts of service may leave the most lasting impact of all.
