'Texans On Mission' sends more volunteers and resources to areas impacted by wildfires

DALLAS — From First Southern Baptist Church in Fritch, Texas, a command center is set up to help families that are impacted by the wildfires in the panhandle.

Rupert Robbins is the associate director for disaster relief with Texans on Mission, formerly known as Texas Baptist Men. He said, “We’re seeing a lot of totally destroyed homes, primarily a lot of trailer houses, manufactured housing, some brick-and-mortar homes as well. Almost all of them are total destruction.”

Texans on Mission deployed around two dozen volunteers and trailers last week to Fritch. By Wednesday, they will have nearly 100 volunteers on the ground, as well as more resources.

The organization is clearing properties so families can begin to rebuild. With approval, Texans on Mission are also working with homeowners to sift through debris to salvage heirlooms and belongings.

More laundry services are also being hauled to the panhandle. By Wednesday, residents and first responders will have a place to wash their clothes.

They will send chainsaws too to help with tree debris removal.

Texans on Call is also working to organize for hay to be delivered to the area since it is a highly agricultural region. 

“We’ll be here as long as it takes. We know it will probably be at least three weeks,” said Robbins. “We are trying to provide help, hope and healing.”

The deadly Smokehouse Creek Fire has claimed two lives and is only 15% contained. Meanwhile, firefighters, including dozens from north Texas fire departments, are hoping for help from changing weather patterns.

Click here to learn how you can help and donate to the Texas Wildfire Relief Fundraisers.