There have been so many times in recent years that I have written to you from (or about) Texas. In many ways, it has become another home for my family and me.
I can’t tell you how much we appreciate the partners and friends we have made there. The courage and determination Texans display in defense of faith and family is truly inspiring.
And that has made this week all the more painful to witness.
As you know, Hurricane Harvey has devastated the communities along the Gulf of Mexico, especially the great city of Houston.
Day after day, we have seen the painful evidence of this disaster, terrible stories about the destruction and loss of human life caused by the flooding and storms.
Our hearts have ached as we have seen the terrible struggle and damage caused by the hurricane. And we have been praying non-stop for the people who have lost their homes, friends, family members, and more.
However, there have also been great stories of courage, kindness, and sacrifice – the virtues that have always characterized the people of the Lone Star State. And we want to do our part to help.
At present, FEMA is operating more than 200 shelters to help house more than 32,000 people who have been displaced by the hurricane. They are preparing to help with clean up and are providing resources for those who must evacuate, who require somewhere to stay, or have other needs. FEMA is encouraging those affected by the storm to register for help at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/.
Many are lining up with generous donations. (President Trump has already donated $1 million to the cause.) And after much prayer, CAAP has decided to help raise money for the people of Texas as well. If you would like to donate, please send your check made out to the CAAP Hurricane Relief Effort to:
Coalition of African American Pastors
2654 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Suite 139
Henderson, NV 89052
If you want to volunteer to help victims in Texas or Louisiana, you can register with the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.
To our partners in Texas and Louisiana, please know that we are praying for you.
We have not forgotten all that you do in the cause of faith and justice, and we are eager to assist you in your time of need. That’s why Deborah and I began the CAAP Hurricane Relief Effort. We want to help raise awareness and offer more resources to the victims of the hurricane.
It can be difficult to sustain hope in the face of such devastation, but we are being called to support our brothers and sisters in Texas and Louisiana. Please join with me in praying for those affected by the hurricane. May God heal and comfort them in this time of trouble.
