“Many of you have been asking how we are doing after the storm and what they can do to help. Thank you for your interest and concern. We wanted to provide all our supporters with an update and an invitation. Right now, Camp Kinard is serving as a home base for 60 linemen who are tirelessly working to restore power to the surrounding areas after the impact of Hurricane Helene. We are honored to play a part in helping our community recover, just as Coastal Retreat did during Hurricane Hugo when it served as a central command for relief efforts. This commitment to service in times of need is deeply rooted in who we are as a ministry.

Physical impact at Camp Kinard

While we are grateful to have come through the storm, we did experience damage at Camp Kinard. A tree fell through the roof of one of our lodge buildings, and while we’re fortunate to have insurance, our deductible is high. Additionally, the downed trees across the campgrounds—unfortunately not covered by insurance—require extensive cleanup.

Ways you can help

As we continue to move forward, we ask for your support in the following ways:

-Pray with us: Please keep us in your prayers as we work to repair and restore our facilities, and as we continue to serve both our guests and those helping the community recover from the storm.

-Volunteer: If you’re able, we welcome volunteers to help with the cleanup of downed trees and other debris across the camp. Your time and effort would be an incredible blessing as we prepare to fully reopen our spaces.

Clean-up dates are currently scheduled for October 14, October 15, and November 9. Please click the link to register your group or as an individual to attend. While registration is not required, it helps us know how many to expect. Those with chainsaws or tractors with bucket attachments are invited to bring those items with them.

-Give as you feel led: We are grateful for any financial gifts that can help us with the costs of repair and cleanup. Your generosity will enable us to cover our $10,000 insurance deductible and other expenses not covered by insurance as we to continue offering these sacred spaces to all who seek them. For those interested in making a donation, please click here for more info.

Through every challenge, we remain committed to our mission, and we are so thankful to have partners like you who share in this work. Together, we will continue to provide a place where God changes lives and communities are strengthened.

With deep gratitude,

Deacon Dallas Shealy
Executive Director, South Carolina Lutheran Retreat Centers