Monday, September 4, 2017

"Amidst the heartbreak of tragedy, love blossoms.”


Real People.  Real Sorrow.  Real Hope.

As a Houstonian transplant here in Boise, I felt helpless while Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc among those in my hometown. We've weathered our fair share of violent hurricanes, but this storm brought unprecedented levels of rain. My best friend's life turned upside down as floodwaters overwhelmed her home. Unfortunately, this level of destruction isn't a rare case. Many in my community suffered losses, whether it was their home, church, workplace or school.

Thankfully, my brother and sister's neighborhoods escaped virtually unscathed. However, everytime they venture into the community, helping friends and strangers alike, my heart breaks as I witness the utter desolation through their photos and updates. Although the hurricane has passed, its chaos remains. Harvey’s devastation will be felt for years as Houstonians begin the arduous journey to rebuild their lives.

Alleviating suffering and lifting hearts through giving is our mission. No one knows the needs of these victims better than the people who suffered alongside them. With our local contacts, we have firsthand knowledge as things transpire. We are working to provide assistance on an individual level. Your donations through PayPal will be given directly to those devastated by Harvey, so they can obtain the items they need most. Things as simple as gift cards to buy meals because they no longer have a functional kitchen or to buy bandages and antibiotics for wounds incurred by the demo of their homes. My sister-in-law and others will also be able to provide warm meals door-to-door (a luxury for many during this disaster).

Everyone involved in this endeavor is freely giving of their time and means. No one gets paid for their service. As a measure of goodwill for your trust, we will record your donations being given to those who suffered the brunt of Harvey's force. This is a wonderful way to experience a connection to the people, since most of us can't be there physically. How often do you get a chance to see the impact your contribution makes?

I know many of you have already generously given of your time and substance, but even a couple cents from each person can make a difference to these survivors.

Please donate by clicking on the "Lift Hearts" link below.

--->  Lift Hearts  <---

If you're uncomfortable with donating to this cause, please consider giving to organizations, such as,

LDS Philanthropies 

or

The Salvation Army

where 100% of your donation goes to the victims instead of being siphoned into management salaries.

Scroll below for a small glimpse into Hurricane Harvey's impact on our friends and community.











My sister-in-law setting out to bring provisions to Harvey flood victims.











Video of my sister-in-law and her friends passing food to workers as they clear 
flood-damaged belongings lining the streets.








My brother helping his friend demo his parent's flood damaged home.





Video shot outside of the residence.







Video footage of Kingwood High School flooding:





I graduated from Kingwood High School. 
It broke my heart to see it inundated with water. 
The damage is so catastrophic, this year students will attend 
another school called Summer Creek High.




The football field where I cheered.










Sunday, September 3, 2017


Our church friend's backyard during flooding.






Photos below were taken about 20 years before Hurricane Harvey.


My parents designed and cut these Christmas tree lawn decorations for our neighbors to paint and display. We are gathered outside my old house in Kingwood, TX. (Houston area). Our community's camaraderie is one of the things I miss and love most about living here. No matter where I move, 
Texas holds my heart.