Samaritan's Purse Responds to Deadly Michigan Tornado

Christian relief organization deploys teams to help impacted families in Three Rivers and surrounding areas.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Samaritan's Purse, a Christian relief organization, has responded to a powerful tornado that struck Three Rivers, Michigan and surrounding communities on Friday, leaving at least four dead and dozens injured. The organization has deployed disaster relief teams and equipment to help families clear debris, remove downed trees, and secure damaged homes as they recover from the unexpected and destructive storm.

Why it matters

Samaritan's Purse has a long history of providing aid and spiritual support to communities impacted by natural disasters. This response in Michigan highlights the organization's commitment to helping those in crisis, especially in areas where other relief efforts may be limited.

The details

Within 24 hours of the tornado, Samaritan's Purse disaster specialists were on the ground in the hardest-hit areas to assess the damage. The organization has since deployed a disaster relief unit stocked with tools and equipment, as well as teams of volunteers who will begin assisting families this week. The volunteers will clear debris, remove downed trees, and secure tarps on damaged roofs while also providing spiritual support to remind families that 'God has not forgotten them'.

  • The tornado struck Three Rivers, Michigan and surrounding communities late Friday afternoon.
  • Samaritan's Purse disaster specialists arrived on the ground within 24 hours of the tornado.

The players

Samaritan's Purse

A Christian relief and evangelism organization that responds to the physical and spiritual needs of individuals in crisis situations, especially in locations where few others are working.

Franklin Graham

The president of Samaritan's Purse.

Edward Graham

The chief operating officer for Samaritan's Purse.

Jason Kimak

The vice president of North American Disaster Relief for Samaritan's Purse.

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What they’re saying

“Families are reeling from this unexpectedly destructive tornado that ripped through southwest Michigan on Friday. Our staff deployed immediately to see how we could help these hurting communities.”

— Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan's Purse

What’s next

Samaritan's Purse teams will continue to assist families in the coming days and weeks as they work to recover from the tornado's devastation.

The takeaway

Samaritan's Purse's swift response and commitment to providing both physical and spiritual support to the communities impacted by the Michigan tornado underscores the organization's dedication to serving those in crisis, even in the face of unexpected natural disasters.