Local church gives back to first responders after bridge collapse in Baltimore
BALTIMORE, Md. (DC News Now) — A local church is giving back to first responders as they continue their investigation after the Fredrick Scott Key Bridge collapse.
Officials have been out there for countless hours working to find the victims, investigate and clean up the scene of the tragic incident. Leaders at Union Church reached out to learn what first responders needed the most: food.
“It is the heart of our Senior Pastors, Pastor Stephen and Zai Chandler, that during an emergency or crisis, Union Church can mobilize to get boots on the ground as the tangible hands and feet of God,” said Angela Broadus, Associate Pastor of Outreach for Union Church.
Church leaders along with a group of volunteers made their way to the scene every day since Tuesday to provide first responders with food, snacks and water to help keep them energized as they navigate the bridge collapse.
Victims of Key Bridge collapse came from Central America
Kevin Cartwright with the Baltimore City Fire Department says he was so grateful when he saw the Union Church van arrive with loads of food.
“We have so many emergency workers on the scene. We have firefighters, dive team members, paramedics, public safety, law enforcement. I can’t thank [Union Church] enough for all that they’re doing right now, providing sustenance, love, prayer and support for our emergency workers,” said Cartwright.
The church was able to provide food for more than 700 people.
“Through every meal shared, every heartfelt interaction and every smile, it was our desire to not only nourish our first responders but uplift their spirits as we remind them how valued and appreciated, they are during unforeseen events like the Francis Scott Key Incident. It was our hope to be walking and living examples of God’s love and hope,” said Broadus.
This comes after a cargo ship crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse early Tuesday morning. The ship issued a “mayday” right before the incident allowing officials to close the bridge to any traffic, but there was not enough time to warn the eight construction workers working on potholes on the bridge before it collapsed, according to Maryland State Police.
Two people survived and on Wednesday police found the bodies of two others. Unfortunately, they believe the bodies are stuck within the structure of the river.
Cargo ship had engine maintenance in port before it collided with Baltimore bridge, officials say
“It has indeed been heartbreaking. As a church, we are praying for every single family member who lost a loved one in this unforeseen circumstance, and everyone affected by this event. We pray they will experience God’s peace and comfort during this time, as we believe God is near the brokenhearted,” said Broadus.
Broadus says they took the time to speak with crews and observe the damage up close.
“It takes your breath away to see the damage up close and to see the magnitude of the situation. I wasn’t ready for it… I couldn’t stop tearing up,” she said.
Union Church says they plan to meet the needs of emergency workers, officials and the families impacted through prayer and support.
Resources from nearby counties have all been called in.
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