Today, the missionaries were out helping clean up. There is significant flood damage to homes. They are taking precautions to be safe. They are embedded with their local leaders who are organizing work groups and have the proper tools. I had several reports today that missionaries worked hard and were tired but happy to help and get out and work.
The reservoir situations are still tenuous. They released water today from them and flooded areas within a mile or less of some of the apartments we vacated. We will have our missionaries stay in their temporary housing for now and until we feel it is safe to return to the apartments. Creeks are starting to recede. The temple took on several feet of water and we don't know yet when it will begin to be cleaned out, but the Cyprus Creek that caused the damage is receding and has gone down considerably.
I have received many requests from parents or other members outside of Houston to come help or send supplies. I spoke to our Emergency Response leaders today and they indicated that the Church is putting together a hotline or website to direct people how they can help or how to send supplies. I will share that as soon as I get it.
I will try to get some pictures of missionaries helping in projects and post them in the next few days. You will enjoy seeing your missionaries in action. They are awesome and are learning lessons that will help them all their lives. They are not only learning themselves but are helping those devastated by this storm. They have a way to bring comfort to those in distress the way others can't. There is a reason they are here at this time and the Lord is using them and their talents to help His children.
- President Peterson
