LONGVIEW, Texas — Wildfires in the Texas Panhandle have been raging for more than a week now, but people living in East Texas are stepping up to lend a hand. Patrick Johnson of J-Star Ministries in Longview is preparing to head that way. He’s teaming up with a small nonprofit based in the Panhandle, that's looking to make a big difference.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, over 1 million acres of land have been damaged by wildfires in the Texas Panhandle, impacting countless lives.
Enter: Patrick Johnson and J-Star Ministries. Johnson has collected more than 300 Easter baskets filled with toys and other essential items that he’s personally delivering to the Panhandle.
"In times like these, especially when something tragic happens like that, the sooner we can get down there the better. And so, again, (we) just want to bring smiles to the kids faces, the adults, pray with them, encourage them," said Johnson, who founded J-Star Ministries.
It’s no secret that when people need help, Johnson is often there to step up to the task. But he organizes most of his relief efforts through his own organization. This time around though, Johnson has partnered with Connect Community Services, an organization that is helping people in the heart of the Panhandle.
"We are a local nonprofit that provides resources … education, clothing, shoes," said Missy Keener, executive director of Connect Community Services.
Connect Community Services is based in Fritch, Texas, and it has been providing aid to that community for almost 10 years now. Recently, they’ve been busier than ever trying to actively help folks rebound from the wildfires, which is what caught Johnson’s attention.
"He reached out to me (and) asked what he could provide. He was excited to help the students. He’s a big student advocate, and so he wanted to come and help the kids get some normalcy," Keener said.
Johnson is making his trip on Monday. So there’s still some time for people to reach him and donate to help the Panhandle.
Those interesting in helping Johnson can call him at 903-424-1757 or visit his Facebook page, Patrick Johnson.