Interfaith organizations can communicate this kind of information to work teams arriving from around the nation. Volunteer teams are usually assigned to rebuilding homes, but in Texas some may help rebuild the riverside recreational facilities that bring in millions of dollars in tourist revenues for the state each year. Now that the water is again safe for contact, volunteers are needed to help remove debris. Rafters and tubers begin flocking to the river after Memorial Day. Volunteers will be needed to clear debris from homes, since most state and county officials ended debris cleanup by Thanksgiving because of high equipment costs and staff overtime.
Little gestures can offer an incredible boost.
Most interfaith organizations plan to stay in place for the next two years at least. They'll have a lasting impact on flood recovery and on relationships between churches as well. For example, when one local church holds a potluck dinner or chili cook- off that benefits flood recovery, members from churches throughout the community attend. For general questions about The United Methodist Church, please call InfoServ at 1.800.251.8140.