*I originally wrote this as an e-mail for my church, but after doing so realized that it could be beneficial for others as well, especially those in Central Texas. If you are wanting to assist victims of Hurricane Harvey but aren't sure the best ways to do so, I hope this will help.*
During and after any natural disaster, we as Christians owe to our neighbors to do what we can to help. Here are a few ways you can best assist disaster relief efforts in Houston and the coastal area:
PRAY:
Victims, first responders, disaster relief organizations, churches, and local, state, and federal officials can all use your continued prayers this week and in the weeks to come. Let me further encourage you, don't just get on social media and post, "Sending thoughts and prayers"...actually get on your knees and go to the Lord in supplication.
"And this is the boldness we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."- 1 John 5:14
GIVE:
1. Texas Baptist Men is a world renowned disaster relief organization that our church generously supports on a monthly basis. They have been stationed at various evacuation sites since before the storm and are in the disaster zones now assisting. These folks are experienced disaster relief volunteers who extend the love of Christ in the most practical ways possible to victims of disaster--if you are looking for an organization to donate to, this would be my first recommendation.
2. Central Texas Food Bank, which we partnered with for more than a year through the monthly Second Saturday food distribution program, is one of many state food banks helping to feed storm and flood victims. Consider donating to them as well.
3. Give blood through the American Red Cross in Waco. Our local Heart of Texas branch is part of a network that helps serve both Central and South Texas, so any blood you donate will likely help to restock blood banks in the flood zone. For those wanting to donate blood, there will be a drive this Friday from 9:30-3:00 at the Doris Miller VA Medical Center Building 6. You can also give blood through Carter BloodCare in Waco.
DO NOT GIVE UNWISELY:
I completely understand the desire to give something other than money, whether out of concern that your money will be misspent or simply from a desire to eliminate the middle man and get what is needed yourself. However, relief organizations unanimously agree that the best thing you can give them, especially in the middle of a disaster, is money. Disaster relief is expensive, and for nonprofits especially, financial donations are vital.
For legal, financial, and/or sanitary reasons, your blankets, medicine, teddy bears, used clothing, canned goods, etc. are more likely to be tossed in a dumpster than go to someone in need. If you want to give and know that you are truly helping, then give money to one of the organizations above.
VOLUNTEER:
Latham Springs Baptist Encampment in Aquilla, where we have sent students in the past for youth camp, is serving as an evacuation site for 450-500 storm victims between now and the weekend. If you have the time flexibility this week, they are in need of volunteers to help serve food, wipe down tables, etc. during the day. Particularly if you have an RV and would be able to stay a few days, your help would be greatly appreciated. If you're interested in helping, call (254) 694-3689 for more information.
If other opportunities open up with our partner organizations, or if there is a way we as a church can help more directly, I will let you know. I hope this information will help as you consider the best way to love our neighbors in South Texas.
No comments:
Post a Comment