Hearts With Hands has responded to nearly every major disaster in the United States since its founding. It was born from one of the most destructive hurricanes in American history.
When Andrew Hit
In August 1992, Hurricane Andrew devastated South Florida with Category 5 winds. Dr. Ralph Sexton Jr., a pastor and evangelist based in Asheville, North Carolina, organized disaster relief efforts from his church and mobilized teams to help affected communities. Along with his late wife Muzette, he formalized the operation into Hearts With Hands, a Christian, non-denominational humanitarian nonprofit.
Consistent Presence
Unlike some organizations that respond selectively, Hearts With Hands built a reputation for showing up consistently. From hurricanes to tornadoes to floods, the Asheville-based organization deployed to disaster after disaster across the country.
In 2024, Hearts With Hands was active in Hurricane Helene recovery in western North Carolina, supporting over 170 households in the Swannanoa area near their home base. The devastation hit close to home, and the organization's local knowledge made their response especially effective.
Dr. Greg Lentz was appointed director in 2014 and continues the mission the Sextons established over three decades ago.
Learn more on our Hearts With Hands page.
