NTC Continues To Respond To Relief Efforts In Paris, Powderly, Jacksboro

Lamar County and Red River County

The latest round of tornadoes that hit NTC’s East District in November caused significant damage in Powderly, north of Paris, and limited damage in Bogata. To date, there are 77 homes that were significantly damaged or destroyed in Lamar and Red River counties.

There is a current need for assistance in debris removal, including downed trees that need to be cut up at Cultiv8 Community, located outside of Paris. Rob Spencer can be contacted at 940-736-3008. 

Those wanting to assist in the wider clean up effort in Powderly and the surrounding areas can contact the official Volunteer Resource Center via its hotline during business hours at 903-495-8722.

Lamar and Red River county community organizations are meeting on Dec. 14 to explore the possibility of a long-term recovery effort for their affected communities.

Jack County

The Jack County long-term recovery effort is now in full swing. Staff have been hired, cases are being managed and reconstruction work has begun! UMCOR approved a $1.4 million grant in November, allowing the North Texas Conference to plan the next two years response and to provide significant resources for clients’ unmet needs.

Much more is needed, however, both in human and financial resources. There is a continued need for volunteers to assist in debris removal and in rebuilding efforts. The Disaster Response Team has construction managers ready to manage incoming teams and individuals, as well as accommodations for those in RVs.

If you would like to schedule a shift for yourself or for a group from your church, email Harva Kuykendall, NTCUMC Disaster Recovery Volunteer Coordinator. We are accepting booking, now through the end of summer 2024.

Financial gifts to meet the needs of individuals who lost or sustained damage to their primary residences in the tornado can be made through the NTC’s Close to Home campaign. Through this campaign, the conference hopes to provide one-quarter of the funding – or $500,000 – necessary for Jack County’s long-term recovery efforts.

As always, if you have specific questions, please reach out to Conference Disaster Response Coordinator Jeremy Basset at 972-526-5046.

Published: Monday, December 5, 2022