Jasper County church helps feed firefighters battling wildfires

JASPER COUNTY, Texas (KTRE) - With the outbreak of wildfires across East Texas, firefighters are working harder than usual. The Southern Baptist Texas Church Relief Team is doing its part to help keep the firefighters properly fed.

The 3,562 acre Shearwood Creek Fire called in state and national response crews to fight the flames.

The Wildland Fire team includes firefighters from around the country. Wildland Fire Information Officer Chris Joyner from Tennessee said working far from home can be challenging. Still, he has felt welcomed by the East Texas community.

“This is very unusual, and it’s quite special and says a lot about the people and the culture here,” said Joyner.

The disaster relief volunteers worked alongside members of the Ebenezer Baptist Church to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner for firefighters on Monday.

“To give them a good hearty meal and to thank them for the work that they’re doing here,” said volunteer Lynn Eastepp of Jasper.

The disaster relief team brought in a food trailer to help prepare 700 meals daily.

“It’s a fully stocked commercial kitchen on wheels, ready to go within a three-hour notice,” said Eastepp.

Eastepp said he didn’t give a second thought to help support firefighter crews.

“It feels good doing work for people that we know and we love here, and we’re so grateful for the volunteers that are coming to help us.”

Joyner said the community efforts don’t go unnoticed.

“It means a lot to us, and it’s a big morale booster for us.”

Copyright 2023 KLTV/KTRE. All rights reserved.