Helping Those Who Have Been Hit by Storms of Life and Weather

About the area

Jasper and Newton counties are a rural area of east Texas that has experienced several floods, hail and a tornado. There was a massive flood in April 2024 where they received 13 inches of rain in one day and flood water rose to over five feet in some areas. Dozens of families were rescued by boat, horses and livestock were rescued from an auction barn, even caskets were unearthed at the West Greenlawn Cemetery near Kirbyville.

This was followed by heavy rains and a hail storm in May 2024. Then Hurricane Beryl blew through in July 2024 which caused additional flooding and spun off a tornado near Jasper. Some flood damage still remains from Hurricane Harvey which took place in 2017. Since this area in east Texas is not near a large metropolitan area, they are still waiting for help. 

HarvestCall is organizing the Rebuilding Ministry to serve in Jasper and Newton counties in east Texas. We will be rebuilding and repairing homes for those unable to recover on their own as well as sharing the Gospel of Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Beginning on January 12^th forty volunteers are needed each week to serve in the HarvestCall Rebuilding Ministry. Both skilled tradesmen and unskilled workers are needed. There is an opportunity for every willing heart to serve in this ministry. All volunteers are limited to one week to give more people an opportunity to serve. Skilled construction workers will provide leadership for volunteers on the work sites. HarvestCall tool trailers and vehicles will be on site throughout the term of the project. The work will include all phases of house construction from framing and roofing to painting and cleaning.

Damaged houses will be repaired and destroyed houses will be rebuilt. The Gospel message will be proclaimed as Christ’s love is shared with those we serve in his name. We have the opportunity to be his hands and feet as we minister to those whose lives have been turned upside down resulting in hopelessness, frustration and despair. They need to know that we care and most importantly that God cares. Serving from a posture of humility is of utmost importance.

Accommodations Provided

Volunteers will be housed in dormitory style housing at East Texas Baptist Encampment. There are accommodations for both men and women. Dormitory rooms are equipped with bunk beds, showers and toilets. Accommodations at the camp are available Sunday afternoon through Friday afternoon. All volunteers should plan to depart no later than 5pm on Friday. Weekends are used for preparing for the incoming volunteers.

While there is no required fee for participation, any donations received will translate into more funds available for building materials to help those in need.

Hotel Rental at the Camp

East Texas Baptist Encampment has agreed to rent hotel room at the camp in Lake View Lodge to anyone who is unable or unwilling to stay in the dorms. To make reservations call (409) 379-2737.  If you choose to stay in the hotel, you are responsible for making your own arrangements and also the cost. There is no cost for staying in the dorms.

NOTE – Those who choose to stay in the camps hotel, instead of the dorms, need to communicate their intentions to the ministry manager via email after making their own arrangements - slagelachc@gmail.com

Lake View Lodge at East Texas Baptist Encampment

Special Invitation to Ministers

Since this project is located too far from any of our congregations to worship there, we plan to hold services at the camp each Sunday and Wednesday evening. We encourage ministers to make themselves available. 

Wondering what serving on a rebuilding team is like? Watch the video below.