There are some partnerships that immediately put into perspective the importance of dependable PPE — and working alongside God's Pit Crew is certainly one of them.
For more than 25 years, God's Pit Crew has supported communities affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding and other major natural disasters across the United States. Known for fast, hands-on disaster response, the organisation helps communities begin recovering after devastating events — often arriving whilst areas are still dealing with dangerous storm damage, fallen trees and blocked access routes.
Chainsaw Operations at the Heart of Disaster Recovery
When disasters strike, chainsaw operation quickly becomes a critical part of the recovery process. Roads need reopening, dangerous debris needs clearing and damaged areas need making safe before communities can begin rebuilding. It is demanding, unpredictable work carried out under immense pressure and across hazardous environments.
That is where God's Pit Crew steps in.
Recently, we caught up with Chris Chiles, Director of the Immediate Response Team at God's Pit Crew, whilst at ArborFest Expo to hear more about the work their crews carry out across the country.
"We travel the country and all over the world wherever a disaster happens. Oftentimes we're removing trees from homes, clearing roadways to make sure people can get where they need to go and be safe."
The Scale of What God's Pit Crew Does
Over the years, God's Pit Crew has distributed more than 100 million pounds of supplies and supported countless communities through both immediate disaster response and long-term rebuilding projects. Alongside relief efforts, they have also helped provide and renovate homes, schools, playgrounds and community facilities for families and individuals needing support.
One of the organisation's most recognised initiatives is its "Blessing Buckets" programme. Every year, tens of thousands of buckets filled with essential everyday supplies are distributed directly to people affected by disaster and hardship across the US and beyond.
The Human Side of Recovery
But beyond the scale of the operation, what stands out most is the human side of what they do. Chris spoke about the profound sense of community that often emerges during recovery efforts.
"So many places, people don't know who their next-door neighbour is. But when things like this happen, the community comes together."
He reflected on returning to storm-hit areas months later and seeing neighbours supporting one another, communities rebuilding and families back at home.
"Being back after working a storm here and passing the houses and seeing the people on the front porch that I helped — it's an awesome thing."
Why Dependable PPE Matters in Disaster Response
As an organisation carrying out large amounts of chainsaw operation across hazardous environments, dependable PPE plays an essential role in helping crews operate safely and effectively. Arbortec Chainsaw Chaps are helping support God's Pit Crew teams carrying out storm clean-up and recovery efforts across affected areas.
"A lot of the folks that volunteer with us are professional tree people. To see that Arbortec has come alongside us and is providing the chaps, the pants, everything that we need to keep our guys safe — is huge for us."
As a non-profit organisation, access to high-quality PPE can make a significant difference to both safety outcomes and operational capability.
"We don't have an endless supply of funds. To be able to give our folks the highest quality gear is huge for us."
At Arbortec, the Tree Life has always been about supporting people operating where conditions are toughest and reliability matters most. God's Pit Crew embodies that completely. The work their teams carry out for communities across the United States is extraordinary — and we are honoured that equipment like our Chainsaw Chaps can play even a small role in supporting and protecting the people behind those efforts. Because when people dedicate themselves to helping others through some of life's hardest moments, they deserve the very best behind them.
Learn More About God's Pit Crew
Discover the full breadth of God's Pit Crew's disaster response work and find out how you can support their mission across the United States and beyond.
See the Work They Do