Hope Force International Reservists,

After sustaining two major hurricanes and a rare ice storm, southern Louisiana was just starting to get into a rhythm of recovery.  All this momentum came to a halt as torrential rains recently brought days of intense flooding to the Lake Charles area.  One report stated that 18 inches of rain fell within a 6-hour period.  Other reports shared that rivers and lakes were three times their flood stage.  Though the waters have now receded, the full scope of the damage is yet to be determined.  Initial assessments reveal hundreds of homes impacted, and local authorities expect those numbers to grow in the days ahead.

At this moment, Hope Force Central U.S. Coordinator Brian Wagner is on the ground in Lake Charles connecting with leads of other organizations as well as residents in the hardest hit parts of town.  Hope Force Director of Disaster Services, Joey Stoltzfus, is arriving late tonight and together, they will continue to assess the situation.  We are asking that Hope Force Reservists standby, while praying about potential deployment.

• Hope Force staff are on the ground, assessing the situation.

• Significant flooding exists near Texas/Louisiana border.
• Numerous homes are flooded and in need of mucking out.

• Specifics on location and timing of deployment

• If deployed, we can expect initial plans and set-up to take time as things develop.
• If you can’t deploy immediately, you could still have the opportunity to serve in a later phase.
• HFI will keep our social media platforms active and updated.

We are asking for all Hope Force Reservists to be on standby alert for a possible deployment to the Gulf Coast area in the Texas/Louisiana region.  Please check your calendars, and prayerfully assess logistics for you to determine if this is a good time for you to respond.  If you are available, or even think you may be, please EMAIL CHRISTIE with the following:

• Name
• Email
• Cell phone number
• Dates of availability (as best you know)

Also:

• Conduct a self-assessment regarding your ability to deploy (physically, emotionally, family, etc.)
• Prayerfully seek God regarding your involvement
• Prepare your deployment gear and supplies
• Communication with family, friends and employers about possible deployment
• If you cannot go at this time, please prayerfully consider giving financially to the response efforts.

This could be a great opportunity for those of you who haven't been able to deploy for a while. Your willingness to serve others with compassionate action is greatly appreciated...and we need you!

We’d also appreciate your prayers as we continue to assess the changing situation, seeking God’s clear guidance in the process.

Thank you!