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Family in Lake O' the Pines still recovering from storm

Severe weather destroyed all seven homes in the community, leaving them with nothing.

UPSHUR COUNTY, Texas — Three weeks ago, severe weather destroyed all the homes in a Lake O' the Pines community. And today, Patsy Black and her family are still in the early stages of recovering.

The family just made it out safely while the storm hit. But when they returned, there was nothing but debris and the remnants of the homes that used to stand in that place.

So far, the family says it's been incredibly tough trying to rebuild and recover.

"If we could only get someone to volunteer and help us clean up the debris, it would be greatly appreciated," said Patsy Black.

But she was quick to thank J-Star Ministries, an organization run by founder Patrick Johnson, who has been on the scene since the damage occurred providing assistance.

Johnson says that helping others is what he founded J-Star Ministries on, as the East Texas community truly means a lot to him. For Johnson, he feels that being able to provide assistance to families like these is only right.

"You know, they've just been really appreciative and grateful," said Johnson, "And it's made a big difference, just knowing that somebody cares."

He says that helping with the recovery now is only half the battle. He knows that in regards to another severe storm sweeping through; it's a matter of when, not if.

"A reality of life is that somewhere down the road, something like this unfortunately will happen again. It may just be a different area, but a quick response and the ability to get people the goods they need would be a great help.”

Patsy Black and her family are located on FM-729 by Lake O' the Pines. If you would like to lend a hand, contact Patsy at 903-932-4273.

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