Hurricane Laura made landfall as a Category 4 storm around 1 a.m. Thursday about 35 miles east of the Texas/Louisiana border, leaving miles of destruction from gusting winds and tornadoes. Heavy rain is expected throughout the area as well, up to 18 inches in certain areas. A storm surge over 9 feet was reported early this morning along the coast of southwest Louisiana.

Even while Laura was still in the Gulf, the Somebody Cares network of relief partners across the country were preparing to deploy with food for hot meals and other resources. Some were already positioned in outlying areas to move in quickly with emergency assistance as soon as the roads are open.

“By planning and strategizing ahead of the storm, we can be prepared to move in with relief as quickly as possible,” said Doug Stringer.

Our chapter in Jasper-Newton Counties, located in Southeast Texas, reports numerous downed trees and roof damage. They are already at work clearing trees and debris for elderly residents and others in need, and our Holy Smoke grill team is preparing to deploy for the Lake Charles area with food for hot meals and other supplies. One pastor from the area reported a mobile home park where 30 out of 70 homes were swept away without a trace.

Immediate needs include:

  • Tarps
  • Water (power is out so water pumps are not working)
  • Non perishable food items
  • Large trash bags/contractor bags
  • Hygiene kits
  • Cleaning kits
  • Blankets
  • Generators
  • Plywood
  • Roofing nails & felt
  • 5-gallon gas cans
  • Portable phone chargers (charged and ready to use)
  • 18 inch or larger chainsaws & blades
  • Bug spray
  • Financial donations to cover costs for transporting donated materials and purchasing gift cards to assist residents

Please join us in praying for all those who have been affected and for all of the first responders.

“We know everyone is stretched and challenged right now, be it financially, emotionally, or spiritually,” says Doug Stringer. “But for those who are able to help, your gift today will help us be better positioned to help the most people possible and as quickly as possible.”

Your donation today will help us reach out to those who have suffered loss in this storm.

Thank you for caring!