Men put tarp on house after Hurricane Laura devestates Lake Charles, Louisiana

Hurricane Laura ripped through southwest Louisiana last week with winds of up to 150 mph. Within hours of hearing about the catastrophic destruction in Lake Charles, LA, Youth-Reach Gulf Coast (YRGC) started assembling a team to help with hurricane relief efforts.

Our ministry partnered with White Dove Ministries, Freedom Church, Frontline Ministries, and Operation Lost Sheep to assist with tree and debris removal, tarp installation for homes with damaged roofs, flooded home demolition, and other pressing community needs.

When the team showed up, many evacuees had just started to return home and were shocked by the sheer magnitude of devastation. Our relief team gently stepped in and helped families address the aftermath of this tragedy.

One business owner, Bryan Bently, was especially thankful for the efforts of our team.

“All the work you’ve been doing is a great opportunity to help people. This is what God wants us to do when our fellow man is in trouble. We’re all in the valley here in Lake Charles. There’s nobody that’s on the mountain — not right now. We appreciate all the efforts and all the contributions that made this effort [possible].” ~ Bryan Bently

Bryan went on to say that his faith blessed him with essential help in this time of crisis. This support allowed Bryan to make the repairs necessary to ensure that his barbershop could continue serving the community.

Our team spent the rest of the week continuing to help citizens salvage their homes and property. With thousands still without power, YRGC Director David Williams stressed the importance of serving others in times of crisis.

“Disasters like this are tragic and unexpected, but present us with a unique opportunity to show people the love of God.” ~ David Williams, Director, Youth-Reach Gulf Coast

Hurricane Laura is the most powerful storm to hit Louisiana since 1856 but this is just the start of hurricane season. Please prayerfully consider supporting our disaster relief efforts.

Your generosity will provide us with fuel for vehicles and chainsaws, food for our team, and additional items needed to serve those impacted by Hurricane Laura and other natural disasters. A donation dropbox has also been set up at Dollar General in Summerdale (next to the Rabbit Hole Marketplace on Hwy. 59) for those who would rather give in person. Thank you for your support!