CRYSTAL CITY, Texas - An East Texas native is on his way to help South Texas residents pick up the pieces after devastating floods.
Patrick Johnson, founder of J Star Ministries, left Friday morning for Crystal City, Texas. He is bringing a trailer filled with mops, brooms, buckets, cleaning supplies, water, Gatorade and paper products. Johnson said he also visited Sam’s Club to purchase $1,000 worth of snacks for the victims.
“There’s a joy and a peace in serving others and helping others at their lowest point,” Johnson said.
The mission is part of a life purpose Johnson said he found 20 years ago through prayer. After serving in the military, the East Texas native transitioned into ministry to serve on the front lines of natural disasters.
Crystal City is the latest stop in a long history of service. Johnson has made more than 80 relief trips over the last two decades, including responses to wildfires in Simi Valley, California; tornadoes in Mayfield, Kentucky; and various hurricanes.
Johnson said he specifically looks for rural areas that might be overlooked by larger relief organizations.
“What about the rural places? What about the little towns and places that hardly get any attention? So that’s the type of place that I’m going to, and I’m going to serve there,” Johnson said.
While the current economy has resulted in a decrease in donations, Johnson said he remains confident in his mission, noting that he often sees an increase in "God working" when financial contributions dip.
Johnson said his drive to help was solidified years ago by a flood victim in Houston who remained joyful despite losing her home. He now views his work as being the "hands and feet of Jesus."
“The good Lord has given all of us gifts and talents, and they’re not to be, you know, kept for ourselves, but they’re to be utilized to help make this world a better place,” Johnson said.
Those interested in supporting the mission to assist flood victims can contact Patrick Johnson at (903) 424-1757.
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