HopeReach Missions, representing the The Family International in East Texas
After praying about what to do concerning the Hurricane Katrina, the Lord surprised us by telling us to stay put for the moment and He would show us what to do. Eventually His plan became apparent to us when the Evacuees began flooding into our area to take up residence in Churches, Sports Centers and Red Cross Shelters. We then realized that the “Relief Effort” had come to us and there was plenty to do.
We first registered with the Red Cross to go through their orientation program so that we could be available for help in the shelters. This has proven to be a good first step as it has gotten us involved with relief efforts in providing food and shelter for the incoming evacuees.
Then Lord has also led us to do Emotional Healing programs for the children in the shelters. Playing games, face painting and sending clowns to the shelters to keep the kids occupied and getting their minds off the recent traumatic incidents.
We have also been doing more counseling and comforting of others through our witnessing. This seems to be coming more into the picture as many of the urgent physical needs are being met, and the folks have more time to reflect. Many are asking deep questions about it all and needing help to get over the loss of loved ones and possessions