Hill Country Flood Response:
Many of you have asked what we can do for those who are suffering the unimaginable losses resulting from the flooding in the Texas Hill Country. Our desire as Christians is to go and help or to send what we can to help alleviate suffering. Currently, we have been told that they can accept only our prayers and our donated funds at this time. There is no capacity to accept donated goods or volunteers.
Here is how we can respond right now:
• Prayers – for all those who have lost loved ones, others who have been impacted by this tragedy and the first responders and others in the area searching for the missing and working to reunite families.
• Donations – Local authorities have asked for funds rather than goods which allows them to purchase what is needed and to avoid the logistics of managing donated goods. If you wish to donate funds we are recommending giving to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. You may donate to them here. Grants from this fund will support nonprofit organizations, first responder agencies, and local governments actively involved in response, relief, and recovery efforts.
• Volunteers – Local officials have stated they are not ready for volunteers. They will communicate when the area has been cleared for volunteer teams to help with clean up.
If you wish to stay abreast of the latest news regarding this disaster and response, the City of Kerrville Facebook page is a good source. It can be found here. Another good source of information is the Kerr Together website.
We are all heartbroken by the loss that our friends and neighbors in the Texas Hill Country have suffered. We are praying for those who have lost loved ones or have lost their homes and are hoping for the restoration that only Christ can bring.
Grace is here for you.
A disaster or crisis prompts many emotions and actions, but it also prompts community. As a church, we stand together in challenging times with those who are impacted and with those who can serve and contribute where needed. If you are able, please reach out to those in your circles of family and friends and check on your neighbors.
Please use the information below to navigate this season:
Click HERE if you are IMPACTED
Click HERE if you can VOLUNTEER
Click HERE to submit a PRAYER REQUEST
Once a form is completed it will be electronically submitted to the church, and a church contact will reach out to you.
You may also call the main church number at 713-781-7615 or contact your area deacon if you have any questions. (www.gpch.org/deacons)
Helpful resources:
ReadyHarris.org has resources for disaster/hurricane checklist - https://www.readyharris.org/Portals/60/documents/Get-Prepared/Emergency-Essentials/2020-EmergencyEssentialsKit-English.pdf?ver=2020-07-24-093900-000
TXCDR (Texas Congregational Disaster Readiness) https://txcdr.org/personal-preparedness
Psalm 107:28-30
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.