A structure in Abaco that faced significant hurricane damage

In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian wreaked havoc on Central and North Abaco, leaving behind a path of destruction that shook communities. The storm brought a tidal surge of 20 feet and winds gusting up to 280 miles per hour. The storm surge swallowed entire townships, leaving only a few structures standing and causing extensive damage to approximately 90% of the infrastructure in Marsh Harbour. The Abacos power grid was completely destroyed, and over 2,500 small-to-medium-sized businesses were affected. The rebuilding efforts faced further setbacks when the COVID-19 pandemic struck in March 2020, leaving many structures untouched for years. 

Rebuilding infrastructure is a critical issue in Abaco. We have stepped in to walk alongside local organizations and families, remaking that which was broken and transforming the community in tangible ways. 

An elementary school library remains in pieces from Hurricane Dorian 

We partner with local churches, organizations, and families to undertake various restoration projects across Central Abaco. These efforts include painting homes, churches, preschools, primary schools, landscaping, and beautification initiatives. By listening to the stories of those affected, we have gained a deeper understanding of the community’s challenges and work toward holistic restoration. This impact extends beyond physical structures, offering psychological relief and restoring dignity to a community rebuilding.

Since beginning work in January of 2023, we have collaborated with organizations to rebuild the Murphy Town Community Center, which serves as a community hub and hurricane shelter. It features improved facilities such as redundant water and power sources, community showers, a commercial kitchen, and spaces for training, worship, computer labs, and more.  

An Impact Team works on the ceiling at the Murphy Town Community Center.

We also have joined an agreement with Assemblies of God to restore Camp Abaco, a beloved summer destination, for over 50 years. A new solar power project was installed in June 2023 to overcome the challenge of its remote location, providing sustainable energy for the entire campus. Other renovations included remodeling bungalows for staff and replacing termite-infested bunk beds. These enhancements aim to improve the camp’s ability to serve and impact the lives of the youth of the Caribbean.

Many Hands’ Safe Homes and Structures initiative is transforming lives in the Caribbean by addressing the critical issue of inadequate housing and safe structures. You can give individuals the gift of a safe environment by supporting ongoing restoration efforts by donating through our Give Joy Catalog at the top of the page.