For the News

Operation Blessing International (OBI) says that a lot more volunteers are needed for Harvey cleanup efforts in both Beaumont and Port Arthur as the charity has received requests from more than 500 homeowners who need help.

To date, OBI has coordinated more than 3,000 volunteers in these three areas, but more are needed.

In Beaumont and Port Arthur, Operation Blessing is accepting both local volunteers each day as well as out-of-town volunteers needing overnight lodging. Teams of volunteers can register for free overnight lodging by calling 757-226-3407 or emailing volunteer@ob.org. Volunteers must register 48 hours in advance by phone and have a confirmed reservation.

Want to help?

Operation Blessing will be accepting local volunteers daily. Volunteers should meet at the Operation Blessing Mobile Command Center at 8 a.m. at Port Arthur’s Life Church 4600 Jimmy Johnson Boulevard.

Orientation starts at 8:30 a.m. For more information please call 757-374-0944. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, dress appropriately for work in the field (long pants and hard soled shoes or work boots) and also provide their own transportation to and from the work site.

Operation Blessing has opened registration for out-of-town volunteers needing lodging. Teams of volunteers can register by calling 757-226-3407 or emailing volunteer@ob.org. You must register 48 hours in advance by phone and have a confirmed reservation.

Need help?

Port Arthur residents are invited come in person to fill out a work request for free volunteer help at Port Arthur’s Life Church 4600 Jimmy Johnson Boulevard.

All residents must sign a work order form and a release form in person allowing volunteer teams access to their property. Volunteers will not be able to do work without a form signed by the homeowner. Priority is given based on need (elderly, sick or disabled people) and is based on volunteer availability. Volunteer services offered include general debris removal, help finding and sorting salvageable belongings, chainsaw work, heavy equipment debris removal and installing tarps on damaged roofs. For more information on how to apply for help: 757-274-8650.