Rebuilding in Waverly

In August 2021, over the course of a single day 21 inches of rain fell in Waverly, Tenn. causing extensive flooding. Twenty people lost their lives, 573 homes were damaged and 272 homes were destroyed. When flood waters receded, Appalachia Service Project (ASP) was there to help begin the efforts in rebuilding. ASP is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire hope and service through volunteer home repair and replacement throughout Central Appalachia.As part of their efforts, they partnered with FHLB member Bank of Tennessee to access FHLB’s Disaster Reconstruction Program (DRP) funds to begin repairing and reconstructing homes in the area.

To date, the group has repaired or rebuilt more than 25 homes—many of which were made possible with DRP funds. Combining available funding sources in a way that makes rebuilding possible is an important part of the process for ASP.

FHLB also recently sent a group of volunteers to Waverly to spend a day helping with rebuilding efforts. The group painted interiors, caulked windows and doors and helped with trim throughout the home.

Homeowners are beginning to see the culmination of this work and funding as they begin moving into their new homes. One homeowner summed it up, "When something like this type of tragedy occurs in the community, it takes effort from everyone inside and outside of the community to help, from the help of the FHLB, local banks, St. Vincent De Paul foundation and other sources, my house has finally started to feel like a home again."