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Hurricane Harvey

Over 11,000 Volunteers support Interfaith in Harvey Relief

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THE WOODLANDS, TX (September 20, 2017) When Interfaith of The Woodlands received the call to manage the collection and distribution of donations for all of Montgomery County, they immediately took action. Working alongside The Office of Emergency Management and Montgomery County, Interfaith reached out to the community they have always relied upon to help provide assistance to neighbors impacted by floods from Hurricane Harvey. Never could they imagine the thousands of individuals and businesses that would provide donations and supplies and offer countless hours to volunteer. Since August 28th more than 11,000 volunteers helped with collecting, sorting, organizing, loading, unloading, transporting supplies and distributing items to more than 15,500 individuals. Our community truly came together to serve!

“We have been so blessed through this journey,” said Missy Herndon, president and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, “We have been at the center of not only a community, but a country coming together to provide hope and relief to those devastated by the recent storm.”

Making it all possible was Falcon Steel America with the donation of their 225,000 sq. ft. facility in Conroe to house the donations that quickly filled not only Interfaith but two other collection sites. The space enabled Interfaith with an army of volunteers and The Ark Church to collect donations pouring in from all over the country as well as effectively distribute basic needs to neighbors affected by the floods. Local businesses and restaurants sent hundreds of meals daily to the site to feed volunteers and the families being served as well. Not only did these families leave with supplies, they were able to enjoy a meal.

Providing support to Interfaith’s efforts were Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Congressman Kevin Brady, numerous county officials as well as members of The Woodlands Township. Each observed as families were welcomed and escorted by caring volunteers to gather the items they needed. Local congregations in South Montgomery County also served as distribution centers including The Woodlands United Methodist Church, The Woodlands First Baptist, Northway Church and Lord of Life Lutheran Church.

“We are humbled by the outpouring of support from our local, state, and national government officials, first responders, National Guard, our neighbors and supporters. We are so grateful to be able to provide families with essential supplies to meet their basic needs because of the many donations and wonderful volunteers,” said Herndon.

Interfaith is extremely thankful for the overwhelmed support received so will no longer be accepting donations. The focus will now be on crisis assistance helping families get back on the road to self-sufficiency in the weeks and months ahead.

Interfaith of The Woodlands is a non-profit social service agency providing numerous programs and services to meet the needs of The Woodlands and surrounding area.  For more information on Interfaith’s programs and services, or to become a volunteer, please visit: woodlandsinterfaith.org or call 281-367-1230.

PHOTO: Howard Hughes Hospitality provided and served lunch to volunteers and families.

Source: Interfaith of The Woodlands

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