Local relief efforts and impacts of deadly Texas floods
Luis Avila
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. (KESQ) – The devastation in Texas following deadly floods is sending shockwaves across the Christian community, prompting action and reflection.
Southwest Church in Indian Wells is partnering with Convoy of Hope to provide disaster relief to those impacted. 85,000 pounds of food, water, and emergency supplies have already been delivered.
“The church is a big community and we love our church family and we just know if something were happening here in the valley that Convoy would be the first people we would call.”
Andrew Statezny, Southwest Church pastor
The floods have killed at least 110 people, including 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp.
Gregg Hunter, President and CEO of the Christian Camp and Conference Association, says as a result, camps are reevaluating and strengthening safety protocols.
“They’re going through the process themselves of ‘ok, what would we do if that situation happened with us. Let’s redefine all our processes, defaults, safety protocols and make sure that we keep kids as safe as they possibly can be.’”
Gregg Hunter, Christian Camp & Conference Association President and CEO
Still, he says it’s a tough time for parents and campers. If parents are concerned about their child’s safety, he recommends reaching out to the camp.
Sam Frederick, who provides counseling services for Christian camps across the region, says it’s a process that will take time. He’s expecting the need for counseling services to increase as a result of the tragedy at Camp Mystic.
“Recognizing that we’re hopefully safe and what safe looks like here. Making sure they feel and if they’re processing the pain of ‘how can something like this happen in a setting like that,’ then giving them a space for them to talk and of course the most important thing that we can provide is listening.”
Sam Frederick, All People Therapy owner
While many continue to mourn, officials says it’s also a moment to come together to support one another.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.