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Disaster Description

Newton is in eastern Texas near the Louisiana border 100 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and 75 miles north east of Houston . Hurricane Rita devastated this area in 2005 with high winds downing many trees and ripping off roofs. Many people evacuated this area when the storm came through however the majority have returned. 

Two years later you won’t find too much visible damage but many families are still removed from their homes. This area has the lowest per capita income in all of the Texas counties. The major industry in this area is lumbering due to the abundance of pine forests. MDS has helped with clean-up directly after the storm and built three houses last winter.

Since learning about additional needs MDS is returning to rebuild several more homes and rehab several damaged houses. We will have a regular project located at the location operating simultaneously and in cooperation with the RV project.

In Newton, MDS is working in cooperation with Second Hope Homes of East Texas. To see additional photos of the homes built through this partnership, click on the link below. 

Second Hope Homes of East Texas

Outside work

Framing at the C house.

Framing

Framing up the walls at a project in Newton.

Debbie-stands on the old steps.

Debbie shows the original steps to her house- the only thing that could be salvaged.

Foundation

Finishing up a foundation in Newton, Texas.

Damaged home.

A damaged home that MDS volunteers will rebuild.

A Firm Foundation

Building a firm foundation in Newton, Texas.

Newton, TX
MDS
1018 Hwy 87S
Newton, TX 75966
newton(at)mds.mennonite.net
tel: (717) 823-0691
RV Program tel: (717) 823-1505

Newton Project Director: Gil Friesen
Newton RV Program Project Directors: Wilmer and Mary Leichty

Project Start Date: Reopened January, 2008

Project End Date: March 28, 2008

Volunteer Status: Project is Closed

Volunteers to Date: 638

Jobs Started: 195

Jobs Completed: 193

Project End Date:

Volunteer Information:
Please read these files if you are planning and preparing for travel to work in Newton, Texas, either on the regular project site or on the RV Program site.

Welcome to Newton Texas

Welcome to Newton Texas - RV

RV Program Information

Click the link below to download RV Program volunteer information

RV program Information for volunteers

*Note: Because of liability issues, absolutely no pets are allowed on the RV campus, even if they are inside the RV. Contact Cathie Kearsly at (717) 715-4664 with any questions.

Volunteer preparation tips In preparation for your trip to an MDS project, download the appropriate file below.

Tips for US volunteers

Tips for Canadian volunteers