Help during the floods – Susan’s Story

In May 2025, record-breaking floods struck the Mid North Coast of New South Wales causing widespread damage, evacuations, and casualties. ADRA Australia activated its National Emergency Management Plan and in partnership with local Seventh-day Adventist Churches, provided immediate relief to affected communities through the distribution of cash grants, food relief, and psychological first aid.

Water swept through Susan’s* home in Taree, ruining her furniture and personal belongings. She lives in community housing, and the coordinators wanted Susan to move out so they could do repairs. But the idea of leaving her home after such a disruptive event was distressing.

This is when ADRA volunteers from Taree Seventh-day Adventist Church knocked on Susan’s door, offering financial assistance and support. Susan’s daughter urged her not to accept, convinced it was a scam. But Susan felt in her gut that they were genuine and accepted the help.

“The money came through and she was absolutely wrapped,” said Pastor Graham Stewart, pastor for Forster Tuncurry and Gloucester Seventh-day Adventist Churches at the time. He was the focal point for many of the responding churches in the area.

“I needed physical help not just prayer,” Susan said. “Your church truly cares and did something for the community. Maybe one day I might even come to church!”

The Taree area is prone to disasters, with the Taree Seventh-day Adventist Church supporting their community through two fires and two floods in the past six years. Pastor Stewart said that the church is a preferred emergency evacuation centre for the most vulnerable.

“At some of the evacuation centres, some people felt unsafe,” he says. “They came to the church and asked if they could stay there.”

* Name changed for privacy purposes