MOVING FORWARD IN 2018
In 2018, we are moving forward into the rebuilding phase from the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey. We are working with UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) and The Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. We are also continuing to receive and screen benevolence requests from the local community thanks to our Pastors, church staff and our Harvey Benevolence team. In addition, we have hosted two Disaster teams so far — one from Marysville, Washington and another from Mt. Zion UMC in Afton, Tennessee. We plan to host an out of state team for one week per month in 2018.
Lakewood UMC Harvey Disaster Recovery Team
If you would like to volunteer to assist homeowners with rebuilding, Lakewood UMC is hosting workdays each month, and on various days throughout the month on an as-needed basis. You can join the Lakewood UMC Harvey Disaster Recovery Team by contacting LUMCHarveyRecovery@gmail.com or by signing up on our website at this link:
http://lakewoodumc.org/home/flood-recovery
The Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
We will be working with UMCOR and our conference around Houston to begin the homeowner rebuilding process in 2018. You can find out more about the Conference response here: http://www.txcumc.org/texasrecovers. The website includes important information about mold and safety equipment.
Please continue to keep our community and affected families in your prayers. We anticipate the rebuilding effort in our community to be 2-3 years, with longer recovery in more heavily affected areas such as Bear Creek and along the coast from Beaumont to Rockport, Texas.
Here are other ways that you can continue to help:
- Donate to the LUMC Harvey Disaster Relief Fund
- Continue to respond to requests via social media or email for materials, food, or supplies as needs arise.
- Commit to pray for 1) the community, 2) families in recovery and 3) the Church for wisdom, guidance and resources to effectively respond in Christ.
If you have questions, or know of someone in need, please contact LUMCHarveyRecovery@gmail.com.
"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2