Joe and Ora have lived in Pearlington, MS since 1963. Like most every person in Pearlington, they lost everything they owned when Hurricane Katrina came through Pearlington and ripping apart the insides of their trailer, making it unrepairable. They felt their age making these devastating circumstances even harder, as they did not know how their home would be rebuilt. Joe is 55 and Ora just turned 50. Both of them have worked hard all their lives to make a living. In 1980 Ora was diagnosed with Lupus and has struggled with that since then. She says that it has been the Lord’s strength that has carried her through and given her the ability to work.

Times have been difficult since the storm for the Vinces. They have lived in their FEMA trailer for two years with minimal space. They said one of the hardest things is that they don’t have room for their grandchildren to come over and spend the night with them. The trailer is so small it is also difficult to cook, as it gets so hot so fast, and the space is so cramped.

Ora calls Pearlington “Holy Ground” She says that this really is where the Lord is present and that He is guiding them through. She said her hope has come from all the volunteers that have come through using their time and resources to help rebuild them their homes. She said she looks forward so much to the day when she will be able to call this structure that we are building her home.

Even with all of the trials that Joe and Ora have faced, they are still smiling and so thankful for what they do have. Joe comes out after he gets home from work each day and lends a hand in building his house and they both take time to come outside and get to know the volunteers. An amazing couple who we are more then blessed to know and be able to share life with for this summer.