Title: URGENT: OB Needs Your Help Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing has helped millions of people across the globe
since 1978. Through core programs of disaster relief, medical aid,
hunger relief, vulnerable children and orphan care, clean water and community
development, OBI is dedicated to demonstrating God’s love by
alleviating human need and suffering in the United States and around the world.
Steve O’Grady is the Vice President of Operations and Logistics with
Operation Blessing. Today, Steve offers an update on their global efforts.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
How can a business or corporation provide aid to Operation Blessing?
Does Operation Blessing have the ability to accept tractor-trailer
loads of food and other items?
Where are Operation Blessings four distribution warehouses? How large
are they?
What Federal requirements must Operation Blessing follow?
How does Operation Blessing partner with local food pantries?
Discussed by Geraldina Motta with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Today, Geraldina
Motta reveals details of the tragic and deadly eruption of Volcán de Fuego in
Guatemala, which killed at least 25 people, injuring 300, and displacing more
than 3,100 residents.
Geraldina is the National Director for Guatemala at Operation Blessing.
How can you help those in Guatemala as they rebuild their homes, businesses, and
lives?
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Listen as Geraldina Motta describes the scene when the volcano erupted…
Are there frequent volcanic eruptions in Guatemala? How was this one different?
Is the volcano still active, posing a threat to thousands?
WWhat kind of relief efforts is Operation Blessing providing?
How much of each donation goes directly to relief efforts? (In other words: How
much goes to pad the pocketbook of administrators?)
IIs better to donate items or cash?
To donate to the relief efforts, please click
here.
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing President Bill Horan is here to give an update of their recovery efforts in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Has there been a difference in relief efforts between Texas (Harvey), Florida (Irma), and Puerto Rico (Maria)?
What are “distribution hubs” and what supplies are loaded into them?
Are the horror stories about Puerto Rico true? Was the island really destroyed? Bill Horan says this: “It is the most challenging logistic bottle-neck I’ve ever seen and we respond to disasters all over the world; we have for a long time.”
How was OB able to offer help in Rockport, TX? Are volunteers still needed in Beaumont and Port Arthur?
How can you help those impacted by Harvey, Irma, Maria, and future disasters?
Why are CASH donations the best way to support OB and their recovery efforts?
Click
here to make a donation to Operation Blessing.
Title: Water Shortage in Peru Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by David Darg with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
“Safe water is an extremely critical need right now,” said Sandra Arbaiza, National Director of Operation Blessing Peru. “The municipal water supply has been shut off and bottled water supplies have run out.”
David Darg, with Operation Blessing, gives the grim details about the water shortage in Peru.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
What is going on in Peru? Why is there a water shortage?
How does Operation Blessing meet the needs of communities?
Do small hand-held water filters really work? Note: You can help donate these inexpensive devices. Click
here for more information.
What are some of the long-term goals Operation Blessings has for supplying third-world countries with clean, safe drinking water?
Title: Everyone Can Do Something Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
You may not be able to help everyone – but you can help someone. You may be not be able to do everything – but you can do one thing.
Bill Horan, with Operation Blessing, is here to give an update on What’s UP with
Operation Blessing so far in 2017.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
Where is Operation Blessing currently helping in America?
How many truckloads of supplies, food, and other goods has OB delivered this week?
Bill Horan was in Iraq recently. The threat of ISIS is overwhelming the 50,000 Christians and the situation is getting worse. The stories Bill reveals will just tug at your heart strings.
Can you help Operation Blessing? Click here for more information.
Title: True Story of Help and Hope Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Dan Moore with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Dan Moore, the Director of Disaster Relief with Operation Blessing,
has a wonderful story to share about a deserving single mom whose home was
flooded after Hurricane Matthew.
Questions/Issues Discussed:
What did Operation Blessing, Home Depot, and hundreds of
volunteers do for Kimberly Butsch in North Carolina after Hurricane Matthew?
Operation Blessing is one of the largest charities in America, with an
efficiency rating of 99%, meaning only 1% of their received donations pay
salaries and overhead. Christmas is just around the corner, and so is the push
for year-end giving. Please prayerfully consider donating to Operation Blessing.
To read more about this story and for a video to share on social media, click
here.
Title: Volunteers STILL Needed for Flood Victims Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing International Deploys U.S. Disaster Relief Team to Rosenberg, TX, for Flood Relief.
Raymond McGregor is the Deputy Director of Disaster Relief with Operation Blessing. Many people in South Texas are still displaced from their homes weeks after the disastrous flooding in the region.
Operation Blessing couldn’t help these desperate people without the aid of volunteers – people like YOU!
Questions/Issues Discussed:
How was the most recent flood different from the previous one? Raymond shares a story about one particular family who was just now able to finally see their home after weeks of waiting.
What are the steps involved when Operation Blessing offers their assistance to a community in need? How can churches become involved in the clean-up process?
What does Operation Blessing need the most?
The base of operation in Rosenberg is located at B.F. Terry High School at 5500
Ave N. Volunteers are encouraged to arrive by 8 am SATURDAY, June 11 in long
pants, long sleeve shirt, and work boots or tennis shoes. No need to bring
anything except a willing heart – they even provide you with lunch! For more
details and volunteer information, click
here.
Title: More Volunteers Needed this Saturday! Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Raymond McGregor is the Deputy Director of Disaster Relief for
Operation Blessing.They have been partnering with
Powerhouse Church and the Mayor of Brookshire, Texas, to offer help and
hope to those devastated by the recent floods. Volunteers have been in
Brookshire for weeks, gutting homes, removing debris, and providing prayer and
support to flood victims. Operation Blessing has been out helping as
best they can, but there is more work to be done, with more people needing help
and homes needing repair.
Operation Blessing is asking anyone who can to come help this Saturday. No need
to sign up, just show up! Wear long pants, a light-weight long-sleeve shirt,
boots or tennis shoes, and sun screen. Volunteers gather at 8 am every day
Monday through Saturday at Powerhouse Church at 1818 Katyland Drive in
Katy.
Raymond shares a personal story of one family who was in desperate need of help.
Janice and her family were staying in a shelter after their home was flooded
with a foot of water. But, instead of having a pity party, Janice was serving
others who had been affected as well! What would you do in that situation?
Operation Blessing wants to make sure that “no one has fallen
through the cracks,” Raymond says. They are committed to staying until
every work order is fulfilled and every person who needs help receives it.
Volunteers are needed every day of the week, not just on Saturday. Please
prayerfully consider coming out any day of the week, with the exception of
Sunday – unless you want to come to church! If you aren’t capable of doing
physical labor, you can help serve meals or pray with families.
Title: Disaster Relief after Texas Floods Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing has helped millions of people around the world after natural disasters. They have a team already in place in Brookshire, Texas, helping those who have been affected by the recent floods. Raymond McGregor is the Deputy Director of Disaster Relief for
Operation Blessing. OB has been connecting with Power House Church and the Mayor of Brookshire to assist those who are in the greatest need. Raymond says that they are looking for volunteers to come help rip out carpet, knock down sheetrock, and clean out the destroyed homes.
Power House Church is located at 1818 Katyland Drive in Katy, Texas. Volunteers are welcome to show up at the church at 8 am Monday through Saturday for at least the next week. Even if you are unable to do the physical labor, you can still come help serve meals, deliver gift cards (which are provided), or pray for the families. “One of the most powerful things you can do is just listen to people,” Raymond says. There are many, many different ways for you to become involved.
OB has everything you may need to help – they just need you! Click
here for details on volunteering to help those in need in Brookshire, Texas.
Title: Disaster Relief after Texas Floods Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing has helped millions of people around the world after natural disasters. They have a team already in place in Brookshire, Texas, helping those who have been affected by the recent floods. Raymond McGregor is the Deputy Director of Disaster Relief for
Operation Blessing. OB has been connecting with Power House Church and the Mayor of Brookshire to assist those who are in the greatest need. Raymond says that they are looking for volunteers to come help rip out carpet, knock down sheetrock, and clean out the destroyed homes.
Power House Church is located at 1818 Katyland Drive in Katy, Texas. Volunteers are welcome to show up at the church at 8 am Monday through Saturday for at least the next week. Even if you are unable to do the physical labor, you can still come help serve meals, deliver gift cards (which are provided), or pray for the families. “One of the most powerful things you can do is just listen to people,” Raymond says. There are many, many different ways for you to become involved.
OB has everything you may need to help – they just need you! Click
here for details on volunteering to help those in need in Brookshire, Texas.
Title: Operation Blessing is a Ray of Hope in Hard Times Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
More than 25 million middle-class American families live paycheck to paycheck, according to a study by the Brookings Institution. You may not realize it, but there is probably someone on your street, at your church, and even where you work that may go hungry tonight. With the recent floods in Southeast Texas, many were unable to go to work for several days, some without compensation. Many whose homes or apartments flooded lost everything; most do not have the money to replace even their clothes or food.
Steve O’Grady is the Vice President of Operations and Logistics with Operation Blessing. He is responsible for the OB’s domestic warehousing, transportation, and food distribution. OB helps supply local food pantries with necessities to help needy families on a daily basis. However, during times of devastation, these local food pantries need even more goods – and that’s where OB steps up to plate and really hustles!
Steve also explains that big churches in the area are a blessing to them because many food pantries are not large enough to hold the additional goods. Therefore, big churches help OB distribute to local pantries for them. “It’s really a tremendous network where everybody has a vital role in it,” Steve states.
Since the downturn of the economy, there are two problems which food pantries face: 1) more people needing assistance; and 2) less people donating. Steve O’Grady says, “The need is growing. When you are needed most, it is so hard to be able to help everybody because all those product resources aren’t out there anymore.”
Listen in to the next segment with Steve as he offers ways that you can help OB, local churches, food pantries, and other non-profits during this flood recovery process.
Title: Part 2 of 2 - Operation Blessing is a Ray of Hope in Hard Times Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing relies on financial contributions from
corporations, churches, and even the Average Joe. The majority of
their donations, however, come from big corporations, which donate 65 million
pounds of product to OB each year. All this donated food has to go somewhere! In
Texas alone, OB has twenty distribution centers. Listen in as Steve O’Grady
discusses the efforts in Grand Prairie and the tremendous growth they have
experienced since its conception in 2012.
Steve reveals that, while they work closely with big corporations, they also
partner with small business owners and even farmers for fresh produce. Sometimes
a small business wishes to donate goods to OB but the quantity is just not
enough to warrant sending a big truck out to pick up the contribution.
Steve explains how OB uses local ministry partners who can accept the donation
or even go pick it up themselves to distribute as needed! “We have a
multitude of ways to get your resources into our warehouse, into our partner’s
warehouse, and into the stomachs of those who need it the most,” he states.
Operation Blessing is one of those non-profit organizations that you can count
on to spend your financial donation wisely. Many non-profits have so much
overhead that very little actually is spent on helping those in need. This is
not the case with OB. In fact, their
website boasts that 98.6% of their expenses goes directly to relief
programs around the world. They are very transparent with their financial
statements. I, Terry Lowry, financially support Operation Blessings. Please
prayerfully consider doing the same. Go to their website to research the various
ways you can help OB reach those in need.
Title: Helping Pastors in Cuba Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
The President of Operation Blessing, Bill Horan, is doing something NEW!
He is helping to feed pigs in Cuba! Yes, that’s right! He and others with OB usually feed people, but this time they are feeding the pigs! When the pigs are fed, that turns into a business for pastors in Cuba to support their families, churches, and communities.
It has, of course, been very difficult for Christian missionaries and organizations to gain access to Cuba due to their communist government control. OB has been able to make progress over the last two years, although they have definitely been met with some resistance. Bill Horan reveals that there are roughly 300 pastors now in Cuba, registered, legal, and allowed to preach the Gospel! Praise the Lord!
However, they need help, not only for their communities, but also for their own families. The average wage in Cuba is only about $24 PER MONTH! Those with a college education only make $60 PER MONTH. Bill Horan explains, “It’s only been legal for the past two years for people to have “side businesses” in Cuba.” Before that, it was illegal, punishable with jail time! Many pastors are now raising pigs to help support their churches, communities, and families.
Bill explains how OB has helped two pastors in particular grow from raising just a few pigs at a time to over a hundred! “They’re not just standing there with their hand out. They’re asking us to help them with just a little bit of capital investment so they can do more and do better,” Bill says. And it’s working! There are other pastors they have helped with different “side businesses” as well. Listen in!
Title: Part 2 of 2 - Helping Pastors in Cuba Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Your support is critical in helping Operation Blessing fight poverty around the
world, even right here in America. Today, Bill Horan has been discussing ways OB
is assisting pastors in Cuba make a living wage with “side businesses” such as
pig farming.
If you are skeptical about supporting a charity, stop right now! I, Terry Lowry,
host of the What’s UP Radio Program, have supported Operation Blessing
for years. But don’t just take my word for it! Charity Navigator has
given OB their highest rating for nearly a decade. OB has consistently ranked in
the top ten for the entire country with Forbes Magazine, which rates charities
according to fiscal efficiency. They are honest and trust-worthy, and they are
making a difference for the Kingdom of God.
You, alone, may not be able to support a pig or provide money to feed the pig,
but can your Bible Study group? Can you and your golf buddies pitch in to buy
one or two – or ten? Ladies, how about your sewing or book club? This is the
perfect opportunity for a home school group to support a great cause, too!
During their many visits to Cuba over the last two years, Bill Horan has
discovered that the majority of citizens still do not have access to clean
drinking water. This is absolutely outrageous! Thank goodness OB has developed a
great system to produce safe drinking water which has been used worldwide for
many years. Now, they are bringing that technology to Cubans.
Discussed by Angela Dart with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an alert regarding the first confirmed Zika virus infection in Brazil. The outbreak in Brazil led to reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome and pregnant women giving birth to babies with birth defects and poor pregnancy outcomes. The Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. There has even been a report from Dallas of the virus being transmitted via sexual contact.
The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe cases requiring hospitalization are uncommon. Angela Dart, the Manager of International Health Operations with
Operation Blessing, points out, however, that “Only about twenty percent of people actually express the symptoms.” Also, the spread of the Zika virus is not just an epidemic, it is a pandemic, which means it is spreading very fast worldwide. Although the Zika virus is not deadly in the majority of cases, there is a lot of concern about the virus, especially when it comes to pregnant women. The problem is this: “The virus is so new, research has not been done.”
OB has launched efforts to combat the Zika virus outbreak in Central America and the Caribbean with concentrated efforts in El Salvador and Haiti. In El Salvador,
OB has purchased more than 1,250 mosquito nets that are being distributed by teams of volunteers to pregnant women in order to reduce the risk of microcephaly. The charity has also partnered with the Ministry of Health to provide funding for the government’s fumigation efforts in areas identified to have the greatest amount of Zika cases and other mosquito-borne illness.
Please click
here to help support the efforts of
Operation Blessing in combating the Zika virus. If you cannot give financially, please add
OB and residents in the most infected areas to your prayer list.
Title: Help Needed Now in Garland, Texas Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
The city of Garland,
Texas, experienced some of the worst damage imaginable when an EF4 tornado
struck with winds up to 165 mph.Operation Blessing has been there from the
beginning with a mobile command center and a construction trailer full of tools
from its Dallas warehouse. OB also deployed a mobile kitchen capable of feeding
thousands of hot meals to residents, volunteers, and emergency responders.
However, more is help needed. The people of Garland are desperate for workers to
come help them clear debris and rebuild their lives. If you can help in any way,
whether physically on the ground or financially, please use the following
contact information:
Kerry Dodson, National Volunteer Director for Operation Blessing
Phone Number: 757.226.3407
Email: volunteer@ob.org
You can also contact the onsite volunteer coordinator at (757) 374-0944
If you or someone you know needs assistance with cleanup, food, shelter,
clothing, or anything else after the tornado, please go directly to:
Granger Recreation Center
1310 West Avenue F
Garland, TX 75040
Title: Helping Others All the Time Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Many people across America are facing hardships – things we cannot imagine.
Sudden loss of a job when you live paycheck-to-paycheck is unfathomable for
most. Being diagnosed with cancer or another horrible disease can often lead to
financial strain. Natural disasters displace families every day. If you have a
warm bed and food on your table, count your blessings. Many are not so
fortunate.
During the holidays, people worry more about things that are out of their
control, such as a traditional holiday meal or presents for their kids. Bill
Horan, with Operation Blessing (OB), tells a story of Delilah, a little girl
from Tennessee who often goes to bed hungry. She’s not homeless. Her family just
struggles, daily. Her situation is not unique; it is prevalent in every small
town and big city across America.
OB has four distribution hubs with 75 trailer trucks to help people around the
country with food and drinks (non-alcoholic). Many of their biggest donors are
food companies who cannot sell a certain product because the packaging is done
incorrectly (not due to its contents). But that doesn’t mean they don’t need
financial help – they still have to pay for gas, for truck drivers, for factory
workers. In 2015 alone, OB is set to deliver 64 Million pounds of food and goods
to needy people across America! That isn’t a cheap task. Listen in as Bill Horan
explains more of their day-to-day operations at their four hubs and how you can
help.
The wonderful people at Operation Blessing are also available when disaster
strikes. During this year alone, they’ve been in Texas twice after massive
floods. They travel all across the world to help those in need. They currently
have daily operations in nearly thirty countries. Please consider donating to
Operation Blessing so they can help as many families as possible.
FACT: Operation Blessing is repeatedly named one of the top charity groups in
America. Almost every single cent of the donations they receive goes towards helping others, not themselves. How are they able to do that? Listen in.
Title: Helping South Carolina Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Texans have received help time and time again when natural disasters
have occurred. Now, it’s our turn to give back. South Carolina has
been devastated by recent storms and floods. Some are calling it the “1,000
year flood”.
Jody Herrington-Gettys, with Operation Blessing, is here to give an update on
the situation, explaining that the biggest issue right now is over 40,000 people
not having safe drinking water. It’s hard for us to imagine here in America –
not being able to turn on your kitchen faucet and get a glass of water!
Obviously another issue is the high water and people not being able to get back
into their homes to see the extent of the damage. Jody explains the process
known as “mud-out”: When flood waters come, there can be up to as much
as eight feet of water in a home. Operation Blessing workers and volunteers help
home owners get that mud out and salvage what belongings can be saved. They also
help knock down walls, redo dry wall, and rebuild homes.
To donate to the South Carolina flood relief efforts, click [here].
Title: Update on Disaster Relief in Texas Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Dan Moore with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Dan Moore was on the program on June 1, 2015, to give details about their
relief operations in San Marcos. The recent floods in Texas were just
devastating to so many families in that area and Operation Blessing is helping
everyone they can.
Today, Dan gives an update of the relief efforts. He says there is still much to
be done, cleaning mud out of homes, replacing sheetrock and insulation,
salvaging what belongings they can, giving people food and water. Work orders
from those effected are still coming in to Operation Blessing daily.
NOTE: If a number of senior (over the age of 18) or college-age students would
like to volunteer a few days or a week to help Operation Blessing, please
contact the main office at 757.226.3407. They do offer free housing at Hill
Country Church for volunteers, but you need to contact Operation Blessing
directly to make arrangements. You will also be fed! So it’s a win-win!
If you would like to make a charitable donation to help victims of the Texas
floods, please call 757.226.3407. Note your check in the memo line “100% for
Texas 2015”.
If you are looking to volunteer your time, please call 757.374.0944. Hill
Country Church, 1401 Davis Lane in San Marcos. Please note that all volunteers
must be over the age of 18.
If you or someone you know need HELP, please call Operation Blessing
International at 757.274.8650.
Discussed by Dan Moore with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Texas has seen just about every type of crazy whether involving water over
the last few weeks. Dan Moore is the Director of U.S. Disaster Relief for
Operation Blessing International, overseeing domestic disaster relief operations
and special programs. OBI already has a team in San Marcos and Wimberley areas
helping victims of the recent floods in Texas.
Dan Moore says even Hill Country Church in San Marcos (their base of operations)
saw some flooding, but the pastor and congregants are still willing to donate
their time to help the community recover as quickly as possible. OBI does what
the people want and need. Their main focus is on cleaning out people’s homes as
quickly as possible before mold sets in. There is a lot of mud everywhere and
sheetrock repair is vital to the stability of the homes.
OBI asks first for prayer – for the staff, volunteers, and victims. The second
need is volunteers. And of course, OBI asks for financial support. Unlike other
charities who devour donation money for their director’s and CEO’s outrageous
salaries, OBI will give 100% of designated donations to the victims of the 2015
Texas Floods.
If you would like to make a charitable donation to help victims of the Texas
floods, please call 757.226.3407. Note your check in the memo line “100% for
Texas 2015”.
If you are looking to volunteer your time, please call 757.374.0944. Hill
Country Church, 1401 Davis Lane in San Marcos. Please note that all volunteers
must be over the age of 18.
If you or someone you know need HELP, please call Operation Blessing
International at 757.274.8650.
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
We are to be the hands and feet of God in all situations, especially during
times of devastation. Jody Herrington-Gettys serves as the Vice President of
U.S. Disaster Relief & Programs for Operation Blessing International, overseeing
domestic disaster relief operations and special programs. OBI already has a team
in San Marcos helping victims of the recent floods in Texas.
Jody has helped with numerous disaster relief efforts. Their strategy is not to
come in with guns blazing, telling the locals what to do. OBI does what the
people want and need. They really take the time to listen to the victims to
assess what their greatest needs are.
OBI asks first for prayer – for the staff, volunteers, and victims. The second
need is volunteers. And of course, OBI asks for financial support. Unlike other
charities who devour donation money for their director’s and CEO’s outrageous
salaries, OBI will give 100% of designated donations to the victims of the 2015
Texas Floods.
If you are looking to volunteer your time or give money to a charity group to
help the victims of the Texas floods, please click [here] or call
757.226.3407. If you are within driving distance of San Marcos, Texas, feel free
to just show up at Hill Country Church Monday through Saturday at 8 am. They
will find a job for you to do!
Title: Operation Blessing in Nepal Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing International (OBI) is one of the largest charities in
America, providing strategic disaster relief, medical aid, hunger relief, clean
water, and community development in 27 countries around the world on a daily
basis. They have touched the lives of more than 255 million people in more than
105 countries and all 50 states, providing goods and services valued at over
$3.3 Billion to date.
OBI has boots on the ground in Nepal, helping those who have been devastated by
the recent earthquakes. Bill Horan, the President of OBI, shares how their VP of
International Operations was able to reach out to a community 40 miles outside
the main city where every house and building was completely leveled and many
lives were lost. No one had been to this town yet, but OBI is there now helping
with the recovery.
Listen in as Bill Horan shares more about how they helping these people who are
in such desperate need. OBI has a great policy: “Ask. Don’t tell.” Bill says,
“We do not presume to know what they need best. We have a feel for what they
might need, but we do what they tell us.”
Bill also discusses the H2gO Purifier, which is a hand-held device used to
purify water within minutes. While OBI is working to restore clean water to
communities in Nepal, they are utilizing the H2gO Purifier in the meantime. This
device is amazing! Listen as Bill explains in more detail what it is and what it
does. Click [here] for more on this great invention!
Please prayerfully consider making a cash donation to Operation Blessing so they
can continue to support those in need. Click [here]
to make a quick, secure online donation. Someone may just survive because of it.
Title: Tornado Relief Help Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Raymond McGregor with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
An EF4 tornado reaching wind speeds of 200 mph hour ripped through in
Rochelle, Illinois, leaving in its wake massive destruction, severely damaged
homes, and downed power lines. Whole communities have been devastated.
Within hours, Operation Blessing disaster relief teams were on the ground,
providing food, water, blankets, clean-up assistance, and other necessities.
Raymond McGregor is the Deputy Director of Disaster Relief for Operation
Blessing. He explains how each disaster is different; their job is to assist the
local emergency management organizations and local churches in whatever capacity
is needed. They do it all.
Listen in as Raymond discusses what they do and what they need to help
communities rebuild their lives. He says, “We are flexible. Residents may need
time to deal with what has just happened. There is no way they could do this
themselves.” He also believes that, while monetary support is awesome, prayer is
also vital.
With Operation Blessing, be assured that 99 cents out of each dollar goes
directly into the field. Your money is used to help those in need, not gobbled
up by administration fess or supplying the CEO with a 6-figure salary. It is
used to help. To learn more about how you can help Operation Blessing, click
[here].
Title: Update from Operation Blessing Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
There are many families in Houston – and across the nation – who are struggling
to put food on the table. Operation Blessing’s “Hunger Strike Force” has four
major warehouses across the nation that are responsible for getting food to
those families by way of local food pantries and other special programs.
OB also depends on local ministries to be their hands and feet. But how does OB
get their donations? Listen in as Jody Herrington-Gettys discusses the donations
and how the process works. If you are able to donate financially, or if you or
someone you know owns a grocery store or manages a local franchise, please click
[here] to learn how you can donate goods,
which can be tax deductible.
Title: The Headlines are Silent Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by David Darg with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
There are people
suffering around the world, even around the corner. David Darg,
with Operation Blessing, discusses the persecution that Christians are
suffering in the Middle East, Africa, and other countries. Hundreds of thousands
of people are fleeing from ISIS militants. They sleep on the ground in strange
lands without food or water. Some find shelter in makeshift tents or church
buildings. Many children are separated from their parents and their siblings are
miles apart. ISIS murders many of them or sells them as slaves.
Would you be able to hold on to your faith if you were suffering such
persecution? David Darg says that these Christians could be living their old
life if only they had denied Christ. They’d be with their families. They’d have
plenty to eat. They’d still be going to work or school every day. But they chose
– they voluntarily chose – to stand up and proudly say “Yes, I am a
Christian”. And they are paying dearly for their continued faith.
David references this scripture from Galatians 6:10 “Do good to all people
but especially to those who belong to the body of Christ.” At Operation
Blessing, they live this verse daily. Their workers are desperately helping
people around the world obtain food, clean water, toiletries, clothing, and even
shelter and medicine.
Please pray about and consider financially supporting Operation Blessing.
Click [here] to see how
they are still fighting the Ebola crisis in Liberia – yes there is still an
Ebola outbreak in Africa, even though you’d never know it by watching the MSM.
Title: Operation Blessing is Always there to Help Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
Operation Blessing is a non-profit organization that has helped millions of
people in 105 countries and all 50 U.S. states, providing goods and services
valued at more than $2.7 billion. OB has been ranked one of America’s top ten
“Most Efficient Charities” by Forbes Magazine. Some of the services OB provides
are: disaster relief, medical aid, hunger relief, clean water, orphan care, and
community development around the world.
Recently, OB blessing has been serving in Tupelo, MS, helping with tornado
relief and clean-up and in Pensacola, FL, assisting families who have been
effected by the recent floods.
Listen in as Bill describes their efforts and what still needs to be done.
Title: Part 2 of 2 - Operation Blessing is Always there to Help Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Providing food to needy families is one of the many services
Operation Blessing offers. Surprisingly, the Dallas/Ft. Worth area
is one of the areas in need of more food for residents, especially in the Grand
Rapids area.
Times are tough for everyone, even your neighbors. Bill Horan urges you to log on to www.OB.org to give a donation to help those in need.
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing has helped thousands of people across the globe
to live healthier, fuller lives thanks to generation donations from people like
you.
Bill Horan, president of Operation Blessing, is here with
an update on how you have helped their mission.
Title: Helping Japan: Relief Efforts To Date by Operation Blessing Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
From drinking water to fishing boats, laptops, to fishing equipment Operation
Blessing was one of the first relief organizations on the ground in Japan,
arriving hours after the earthquake struck.
OBI has delivered tons of relief supplies and equipment to tens of thousands of
survivors.
OBI was founded in 1978 and has touched the lives of more than 255 million
people in more than 105 countries and all 50 states within the USA.
Title: A Mission You Can Believe In. A Charity You Can Trust. Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Forbes Magazine has
recognized Operation Blessing as one of “America’s most efficient charities”.
Wow! That is amazing!
Operation Blessing now has a new, trendy way for you to help support the poor,
hungry, thirsty, hurting, and abused. Purchase a “I Am Called” band bracelet
today!
Title: It’s a New Year. What Ministry Will You Support? Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Operation Blessing
has helped countless men, women, and children across the globe with food, water,
shelter, and jobs. Now here’s your chance to help too!
Title: First Bashed By Sandy, Then Covered By Snow, The Town of Breezy Point, Has A Long Way To Go. Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Please tell our listeners what
you have seen today in New York! Is it a mess? How are the spirits of the
people? Are you all helping throughout the city?
Why are loads of used clothing, food and water NOT the best donations for
victims leagues away? If somebody donated money to Operation Blessing, what part
of the dollar gets to the victim?
Is Operation Blessing audited? Does Operation Blessing have a clean record?
Bill, is the situation getting better or are there still restrictions on getting
gasoline and for people to return to work?
Title: When Tragedy Strikes America, When Americans Are Suffering From Floods, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Do We Give Less To Tragedies Outside Our Borders? Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
When tragedy strikes America, when Americans are suffering from floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, do we give less to tragedies outside our borders?
Did hurricane Sandy hit Haiti? If so, did it cause a loss of life and major damage? Who is there helping? Are there needs besides financial needs, that Operation Blessing is meeting for people around the world? Bill Horan joined Operation Blessing International (OBI) in 2002 and was appointed as OBI President. He oversees the operations of OBI in the U.S. and around the world, bringing with him more than 25 years of business and international relations expertise.
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Once you secured your home office there in Virginia, where did you send crews and what did you find on the ground as these crews arrived in the aftermath of the storm?
What location has become your focus? Is there enough media attention on the destruction? Why is there so little media coverage? OBI is a non-profit organization that has helped millions of people in 105 countries and all 50 U.S. states, providing goods and services valued at more than $2.7 billion and earning the ranking of one of America’s top ten “Most Efficient Charities” by Forbes Magazine. Operation Blessing, which has also been ranked by the Chronicle of Philanthropy as the 6th largest international charity, has become a multi-million-dollar-a-year humanitarian organization that strategically provides disaster relief, medical aid, hunger relief, clean water, orphan care and community development around the world.
Title: Operation Blessing International Deploys Disaster Relief Team To New Orleans! Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 4
Louisiana has been devastated again, this time by hurricane Isaac?
How was Isaac in comparison to Katrina? How can our listeners help? Please tell our listeners who are unfamiliar with floods what happens to a business or a home that is filled with 2-4 feet of water?
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
What happened during pre-hurricane Isaac? Were Operation Blessing workers just sitting in an office drinking coffee, hoping and praying that nothing devastating would occur?
Does Operation Blessing prepare for the worse? What is the preparation for a tornado like in comparison to preparation for hurricane? Where on the globe has Operation Blessing been?
Discussed by David Darg with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Why can Operation Blessing go from giving out a bottle of water to generators or boats, or even a microenterprise system to help those less fortunate to provide for themselves?
Tell our listeners more about your "don't ask, don't tell policy"! Also, tell us about the current "gift catalogue"!
Title: What To Do And How To Be Prepared When Disaster is Headed Your Way! Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 3
Special guest Jody Herrington-Gettys answers:
After disaster happens, what goes into being prepared for such an event - what
kind of preparedness/training do you all go through day after day, year after
year?
Can you describe to our listeners what types of supplies your warehouses have
for volunteers and first responders? How many people can be taken care of in a
moment's notice?
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Can you explain the different
types of disasters that you have worked? What is a planned versus unplanned
disaster? What storms types have you weathered?
What happens if all the gas stations have no electricity, internet is down,
credit card reader isn't reading - can one haeve trouble buying gasoline even
with no cash?
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Explain to our listeners that
are just joining in more about this Feinstein Challenge that is running through
the month of April!
Can a local pantry handle a trailer load of green beans? Is operation blessing
suited to taking boatloads into central warehouses and then distributing them
into various panties throughout the region?
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Explain to our listeners that are just joining in more about this Feinstein Challenge that is running through the month of April!
Can a local pantry handle a trailer load of green beans? Is Operation Blessing suited to taking boatloads into central warehouses
and then distributing them into various panties throughout the region?
Title: A Mission You Can Believe In. A Charity You Can Trust. Operation Blessing! Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
It’s been one year since the Japanese disaster, remind our listeners about the devastation caused by the earthquake, the massive tsunami, and the destruction of several nuclear plants.
Because of financial support, big and small, was Operation Blessing able to distribute emergency relief supplies. If so, what types of emergency supplies did you provide the survivors of the earthquake and the great tsunami?
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Many simply survived with only the clothes they were wearing. Did many lose their prescription glasses? How did Operation Blessing come to their assistance?
Once survivors have safe water to drink, access to meals, and a roof over their heads, many begin thinking about returning to work? But if they do not have computers, tools, etc. how can Operation Blessing help rebuild their lives?
Title: A Mission You Can Believe In, A Charity You Can Trust; Operation Blessing. Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
Special guest Jody Herrington answers:
In the fiscal year of 2011, what percentage of OBl's total expense went towards
humanitarian relief programs?
How did Forbes Magazine recognize OBl? And is it true that The Chronicle of
Philanthropy ranks Operation Blessing as the 6th largest international charity
in the country?
Discussed by Jody Herrington-Gettys with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
What were the living conditions for Luis and his family? How did things take a
turn for the worse? Upon meeting Luis and his family, what did Operation
Blessing do immediately?
Does the old Chinese proverb ring true in this story with Luis and his family
"give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you
feed him for a lifetime"?
Title: What will happen in 2012 - Who will be helped and who won’t because of a lack of funds? Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 4
For 2011, domestically and worldwide, highlight a few of the major projects wherein you went and you asked “what do you need?” instead of “don’t tell me what you want, here is what we can do”.
Give us some numbers - how many people did you help out with manpower and supplies last year? How many disasters did you respond to?
Title: What will happen in 2012 - Who will be helped and who won’t because of a lack of funds? Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
For 2011, domestically and worldwide, highlight a few of the major projects wherein you went and you asked “what do you need?” instead of “don’t tell me what you want, here is what we can do”.
Give us some numbers - how many people did you help out with manpower and supplies last year? How many disasters did you respond to?
Title: Hunger Strike Force - OPERATION BLESSING Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Part 1 of 2
Why is Operation Blessing called the Hunger Strike Force? Is there hunger in America today? Is there a newly made "poor class" seeking help from Operation Blessing?
Would those that receive food stamps and unemployment checks all be standing in line for a soup kitchen except for the government assistance? What happens when the government’s borrowing capacity runs dry?
Discussed by Steve O'Grady with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
From Albuquerque to Omaha, Chattanooga to Pensacola, is there hunger in the listening area today in America? How do you turn one dollar, into ten dollars?
Do the truck drivers donate their time or are they employees with Operation Blessing? How many truckloads of foodstuffs will be donated to Operation Blessing International from manufacturers and wholesalers across America?
Title: MAINE BOAT BUILDER GETS 20 BOAT ORDER FROM MAJOR HUMANITARIAN RELIEF GROUP TO PROVIDE BOATS FOR JAPANESE FISHERMAN IMPACTED BY RECENT TSUNAMI Topic: Operation Blessing
Discussed by Bill Horan with Operation Blessing International (www.OB.org)
Because of a natural
disaster half way around the globe, are idled workers in the Northeast now going
back to work?
Why should Americans, American givers, and Operation Blessing still be focused
and involved with the plight of thousands upon thousands of Japanese who
suffered the massive earthquake and then the monstrous tsunami?
What types of aid has the Operation Blessing rendered to the suffering Japanese?
