hurricane relief opportunities in Texas

Unless you have been off the planet you have been watching the news concerning Harvey. The Houston, Texas, area experienced the loss of property and lives as a result of record-breaking rain and storms. Last week Baptist Church Planters’ administration talked about how we should respond. Initially we had decided to recommend a couple of sister agencies that have disaster relief funds. President Little called Baptist Mid-Missions and I called the Regular Baptist Builders Club to obtain information and details concerning the process and what they needed. Through these contacts we were made aware that the greatest need was to send someone to Houston to meet with the missionaries from BMM located in Katy, Texas, and Pastor Al Armitage in Humble, Texas, and assess the needs to coordinate relief efforts.

I contacted Larry French, a retired missionary builder from ChurchCare to meet this immediate need. Larry made arrangements to fly down to Texas last Friday. He spent the weekend surveying the area and seeing firsthand the needs of the families from the churches that had losses. The bottom line at this moment is we need volunteer labor for the church and the families from Good News Baptist Church in Katy. Missionary Gerald Hawk and his wife are revitalizing this church plant under the direction of BMM.

The work that can and needs to be done in Katy require semi-skilled workers and helpers. There are some minor roof repairs, installation of attic vents, installation of insulation, drywall installation, drywall repairs, and ceramic tile installation. The materials are available; they need manpower. Housing is available at the church. Almost all of the cleanup and tear out has been done.

The Humble area still has restricted access. It will probably be another week before the trash will be removed and then the Humble, Texas, area needs can be addressed.

How can you help?
• Continue to pray for the missionaries and the churches as they seek to minister to their families. These events have also provided numerous opportunities to be a testimony to the neighbors of the love of Christ.
• Give of your finances. Baptist Mid-Missions, Baptist Builders Club and Baptist Church Planters have funds set up to accept donations designated for Harvey Disaster Relief.
• Volunteer to be part of a team. Contact Baptist Church Planters/ChurchCare to provide current needs and to schedule a work team.