UPDATED, Jan. 26, 1:30p.m
Texans on Mission is gearing up for the approaching winter storm that may result in widespread power outages, broken tree limbs, and dangerous below freezing temperatures.
Texans on Mission released a statement on social media verifying they are “on alert” after a winter storm watch was issued for the North Texas region.
“Texans on Mission feeding and chainsaw teams are on alert to serve after a winter storm watch was put in place for North Texas. Feeding teams are also preparing to cook meals for those braving below freezing temps. Please pray for volunteers and for Texas residents as they prepare for the weather,” the Texans on Missions Facebook post reads.
“This is what we are called to do. We’re here to be the hands and feet of Christ to serve those in need. By providing hot meals, we hope to show the love of Christ to those sheltering from the cold,” David Wells, Texans on Mission director of disaster relief, said.
Campus closures
As the winter weather grips the majority of Texas, college campuses are taking an abundance of caution, closing campuses and cancelling classes.
Baylor University is providing updates online with modified hours for varying campus facilities and parking.
Dallas Baptist University announced they will be closed Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Saturday and Monday classes will take place online, and on-campus facilities like the library, the coffeehouse, and fitness center will open for modified hours.
Houston Christian University will be closed Monday, and all classes and campus activities have been canceled.
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East Texas Baptist University cancelled activities for the weekend but will be open for remote online learning Monday.
Hardin-Simmons University cancelled classes on Friday and encouraged their students, faculty, and staff to check their HSU emails, online resources, and campus text notifications for further bulletins.
University of Mary-Hardin Baylor released a statement, closing campus Monday.
Feeding at Fair Park, Dallas
Texans on Mission is coordinating a large-scale relief effort at Fair Park in Dallas, where they will serve two meals per day, totaling 1,800 meals per serving, for a total of 3,600 meals daily.
Meals will be prepared at Texans on Mission headquarters and transported to Fair Park.
Two shower trailers will be deployed to provide hygiene services for those staying on location.
Meals will be scheduled from Saturday evening through Tuesday.
During the storm, Our Calling and Austin Street are providing temporary housing for the unhoused at Fair Park. Texans on Mission will partner with both organizations to provide meals and showers.
Showers were excluded in the provisions due to city code.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a weekend-long winter storm with the majority of North Texas anticipating freezing rain, snow, ice, and sleet.
Temperatures Friday through Sunday are expected to be in the 10s and 20s.
Church property insurers have urged churches to implement protective safeguards ahead of the storm.
This report will be updated.
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