“For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” (Isaiah 41:13)

The Texas Winter Storm that had five days of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, has caused billions of dollars in damage to homes, businesses, churches, schools, and other structures throughout the entire state. The storm happened in an area of the country that is not prepared to handle such widespread winter storm devastation.

Lutheran Church Charities has reached out to Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS), Texas District President Michael Newman, Julie Tucker, Texas District Disaster Response Coordinator, and Dr. Bill Hinz, Director of School Ministry, Texas District. Julie states many churches, pastors, church workers, lay staff, and congregation members have significant structural damage and loss of belongings due to burst pipes. Many of these families cannot or will not be able to live in their homes for some time. The Texas District is just beginning the assessment process, but it is overwhelming, as the damage is statewide.

Julie Tucker states this storm has greatly affected the food chain supply as the several-day power outages have meant a loss of food for families, stores, and food pantries. The State Department of Homeland Security estimates that it could take 2-3 months for food supplies to be restored throughout the state to return to normal. For vulnerable populations, this is devastating.

The water is not drinkable in most of the state without boiling it first due to the water plants also being affected by the freezing and burst pipe issues.

The most significant need is for plumbers to make repairs and plumbing supplies, which are now almost impossible to acquire in the state. The state has estimated the average cost of repairs to burst pipes in a home is approximately $15,000 or more. Although some of this will be covered by insurance, FEMA, or state grants, the high deductibles will make it challenging to fund repairs.

If you are a licensed plumber, have critical plumbing supplies you can bring, and can volunteer to go to Texas to help with recovery efforts, please email [email protected].

Lutheran Church Charities will be working through our Texas K-9 Ministry affiliate churches and District Disaster Response Coordinators to bring the Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those suffering and in need.

Please prayerfully consider a donation to the LCC Texas Disaster Response Fund to help individuals, families, and churches now and during the long recovery process.

Your prayers, support, and involvement help Make A Difference – in the name of Jesus to those in need.

Serving Together, Serving Others in Need, as We Serve Jesus!