Karen Loganbill, who lives near Moundridge, Kansas, served with MDS in Puerto Rico in January and February 2025. The following is excerpted from her blog, “Following My Leader.” -- “The poorest of the poor,” they told us. We agreed to go with MDS to Puerto Rico to help roof houses that had been damaged by Hurricane Marie over seven years ago. I went thinking that our accommodations would not be up to the standards of many in the US—I was right. I thought I might regret my inability to speak Spanish—I was right. I thought perhaps the electricity would go out on us—I was right. I thought I might eat quite a bit of beans and rice and try new foods—I was right. I was hoping I would be able to find a good hiking trail or two—and I did. I did not, however, expect to be moved so by the people of Puerto Rico. Their patience, perseverance, generosity, and dedication astounded and inspired me. -- Click the link below to read more! #MDSResponds #RespondRebuildRestore #MennoniteDisasterService (fb)

Volunteers have completed the construction of 5 new homes for people in Pointe Au Chien, Louisiana who lost their homes during Hurricane Ida in 2021. The homes were built to fortified standards by volunteers from Disaster Aid Ohio, an Amish group that works with MDS. We are grateful for the many partners that provided funding for building materials. They include Lowlanders Center, Louisiana Baptist Foundation, Week of Compassion, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster Lowe’s Recovery Grant, Greater New Orleans Foundation, Foundation for Louisiana, Pointe Au Chien Tribe, The Salvation Army, and Hands on New Orleans. #MDSResponds #RespondRebuildRestore #MennoniteDisasterService (fb)