Disaster Relief Questions and Answers

How are trips organized?

Your host church will coordinate with the Texas District, LCMS officials organizing relief trips to all areas in Texas impacted by Hurricane Havey.

You need to sign up your group or if you are an individual at j2e3.com/vol-reg.

Where will I be staying?

There are currently 5 churches that are hosting sites for relief efforts. Once you register, you will re ceive a detailed email with further information or a phone call from your site coordinator.

Showers will be either onsite or at a local fitness center.

All facilities have running water, air conditioning and wifi.

Will food be provided?

Most meals will be provided, however, each trip is different and you may be responsible for an occasional meal.

What type of clothing should I bring to work in?

Long sleeve work clothes, close toed shoes, safety glasses or goggles, and face masks are recommended. You can purchase the following highly recommended items at Amazon:

Do I need to bring a mattress?

Yes. You will need a single air mattress, bedding and a pillow. Some sites do have cots and you will be notified by your host congregation after you have registered.

What tools do I need to bring?

This will depend on the location and the timing of your trip. The trip coordinator will let you know as the jobs are changing daily, however, most tools are on site and provided.

How long will I be working each day?

Most of the work days are 6-8 hours depending on the type of job, weather conditions, and other factors. Please note that you are a volunteer and are free to work as long as you want.

You will have lunch and frequent breaks.

Is transportation provided?

Unfortunately, no. You will need to provide your own transportation to and from your host congrega tion and for the duration of your stay.

What kind of facilities are there?

You will be staying at a host congregation that is air conditioned with bathroom facilities, wifi, and running water. Showers will either be at the host congregation or at a local fitness center. Please remember to pack a towel and other toiletries that you need.

How much does this cost?

Most of our host congregations are able to provide accommodations and meals at no cost to you. Houston/Galveston charges $20.00 per day, per person to help cover the costs.

We do anticipate that additional fees may start at some point in the future, but at this time, we are working hard to keep the fees down.

What type of work will I be doing?

The recovery process is very long and changes daily. We are currently mucking out houses, cutting down trees (only for those with certification), and we are doing some rebuilding. You will be notified what you will be doing upon arrival at your host congregation.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Please notify your host congregation of any dietary restrictions. Your host congregation will do their best to accommodate you. We would suggest that you pack special snacks too.

What age group can attend? What is the adult to student ratio?

We are currently asking that students be in high school with a ration of 1 adult to 6 students.

During the summer, some sites will allow students that are entering grade 7 to attend.

Other information you will need:
  • Water will be provided. Frequent hydration is essential as these are very hot, humid conditions.
  • Daily job and safety orientations will be provided.
  • Mosquito spray is available and we highly recommend that you use it.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses(when not wearing goggles and hats are highly recommended.
If you have further questions, please feel free to email Julie Tucker, Director of Disaster Response.