There is a way to go for the families of Premier Park, but they deserve someone going that way with them. They lost everything materially but sadly, they also came with little spiritually. They came not knowing they could decide their destiny. They came not affirmed of their dignity and of the �Christ in them�. They came and surprisingly saw HEP living out the �Dignity of each person� in a real sense. Baptismal vows had hit the ground running. A community is now beginning and is forming a nucleus of strength that will ultimately influence other people in McDowell County.
While touring homes and visiting families immediately following Flood II a wise man one said: � There is no reason for people to live like this.� Well, three years later, people are learning they have both the right and the power to live differently. HEP is investing in attitudes that will shape the future-one day at a time in Premier Park. Home by home, family by family, life by life, things are changing and people are living life more fully. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is alive and well in Premier Park. This Gospel message will also spread to McDowell County because it is irresistible.
By the way, that wise man was then Bishop-Elect Klusmeyer.
� In 2001 and 2002, flood disasters changed the landscape of the service area and the role of HEP in peoples lives. Its long reputation of credible service enabled HEP to partner with State and FEMA officials to participate in the important work of rebuilding the area but more importantly, rebuilding lives.
� HEP offered substantial assistance to the community and victims and was involved in all areas of the recovery effort ranging from immediate flood needs to home repair, and replacing lost household appliances and other items thanks to the support that poured in from around the country.
� Over time, long-term recovery plans evolved for the people of McDowell County. One such plan was the creation of Flood Safe Communities. Many families moved from the flood ravaged area to surrounding counties, but many reluctantly began new lives in temporary FEMA housing units placed atop mountains or reclaimed mining sites.
� The first such site, in 2001, was New Hope Village on Tom�s Mountain near Mt. View High School. After the Flood of 2002, a second was created in Premier. FEMA came and went after their 18 month commitment, but HEP continued to support the victims.
� HEP was affected by these disasters as well. The faithful old building in Keystone was damaged beyond repair and HEP was forced to cease operations due to flood related problems. The building was officially deconsecrated in 2004. HEP now has an administration established in Downtown Welch.
� HEP was involved from the beginning in the establishment of the first temporary-to �permanent flood safe community, Premier Park. Temporary housing units were purchased by the victims from FEMA and the area became a permanent settlement.
� HEP assisted in building a new community center in the soon to be permanent community by enlisting Mennonite groups to frame and finish the construction.
� State funds and volunteer labor provided the building that serves as the �soul� of the community for over 100 permanent residents. (Governor Bob Wise, State of West Virginia, State of the Union Address, 2003)