Nonprofit that helped SETX calls for volunteers to assist with Lake Charles relief efforts

Operation Blessing, which set up shop in Beaumont to assist in the aftermath of Southeast Texas flooding from Tropical Depression Imelda in 2019, has deployed its U.S. Disaster Relief Team and a convoy of equipment to Lake Charles, Louisiana, to assist with relief efforts following the deadly flooding the week of May 21. Operation Blessing also previously deployed to Lake Charles in September 2020 for Hurricane Laura relief efforts.

The nonprofit has set up a base of operations on the grounds of Christian World Church, 2001 E. Gauthier Rd in Lake Charles, and is asking homeowners whose homes were damaged to come and fill out a work order request for free volunteer help. Operation Blessing will begin coordinating day volunteers beginning Saturday, May 22, at 8 a.m.

The convoy of emergency equipment heading to those in need includes a construction trailer filled with tools and emergency supplies, a Work Order Trailer to coordinate volunteers, a mobile kitchen that is capable of serving thousands of hot meals a day, and a trailer full of fans and dehumidifier equipment to help with dry out and moisture removal from homes/structures.

Operation Blessing will be accepting volunteers daily starting Saturday, May 22. Volunteers should meet at the Operation Blessing base of operations at Christian World Church by 8 a.m. for registration and orientation. Day volunteers do not need to register in advance. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, dress appropriately for work in the field (long pants and hard soled shoes or work boots) and also provide their own transportation to and from the work site. For any questions about volunteering, call the nonprofit’s national volunteer hotline at (800) 730-2537.

To donate to the relief efforts, visit https://www.ob.org/disaster-relief/.