In what practical ways does Uncle Hammer help Papa after Stacey leaves home?

Uncle Hammer immediately came to help the family when he heard Stacey had left home. Upon his arrival, he and Papa left to search for Stacey; they searched for a week with no success. Uncle Hammer would have left his job and stayed with the family, but Papa didn't want him to, so he left his car instead. Hammer knew if they had the car, they could leave at a moments notice if word arrived about Stacey's whereabouts.