An Act Of God (AAOG)

I think that's what I'll call it.

It will be a short lived organization, just as long as it takes to get folks back into their homes.

What it is: An organization comprised of Christians of every denomination who seek to assist their neighbor who has been left in need due to the Texas Wildfires of 2011. 

It's mission: Provide uninsured families who lost their homes to the 2011 Texas Wildfires with a home.

How will we do it? 

Faith in God providing and expecting the Church to well, be the Church.

First, prayer.  If such an undertaking is not done with prayer, it will never happen.  Pray that this vision is first and foremost of God and for His glory and no one else.  Pray that He opens the way. Pray that God opens the hearts and minds of those willing to help with time, talent, and money.  Pray that God will grant vision to others who will help lead and direct. 

Second: Need assessment.  How many folks will need homes?  What are family sizes?  How much space will they need?  How much are we looking at for an average cost of a home?

Third: Parameters for building or providing housing.  No McMansions.  No shanties.  Basic and quality.  Manufactured housing?  A possibility.  Metal building homes?  Definitely where applicable.  Sub-divisions?  Have to deal with HOA's or deed restrictions. 

Fourth: Contractors.  Gonna need several who have a heart for this.  Pay where necessary.  Volunteers welcome.

Labor: God's work.  Our hands.  Sweat equity included (stealing that from Habitat for Humanity.)

Fundraising: Grass roots.  Appeals to congregations and their members.  Will accept grants from organizations, but will not take strings attached.  This is the Church's work. 

Structure: Rooted in a congregation.  Lead committee which oversees work in several areas.  Will need several throughout the state.

Lots more to consider, I am sure.  Starting with the skeleton.  Flesh to follow.