Houston

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OGT Houston Building Permits are In-Hand!

OGT Board members are excited to announce building permits are in-hand which will allow the project to move ahead with construction of the Servant Center/Warehouse.  We give thanks to our Father, God, for His faithfulness to the OGT ministry as we build on the foundation of Jesus.

We are hopeful the project will be completed in 2024.  Watch for updates but feel free to swing by the property to see the progress live.  The Center will be approximately 12,000sq ft of which 7,000sq ft will be warehouse.  The building will also include a sorting and packing area, 2 classrooms, break room, restrooms, and showers.  OGT address: 5040 E Sam Houston Parkway S – Pasadena 77505

After our doors are open there will be a weekday schedule of operation which will be manned by volunteers – plan to be a part of this flexible opportunity to serve. You will be blessed as you work to bless others – it’s guaranteed!

Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Contact Mike Rathje, Branch Manager 281-723-4989 for information about how you can help make a difference in the lives of people in need.

More Than Just Fun!

The Orphan Grain Train hosted an “Under Construction” fundraiser Saturday, January 27 in
Pasadena.
We couldn’t have asked for a better mix of guests aged 20 into their 80’s – there was no
generation gap as they bid over each other at the silent auction tables. Interactive riddle solving
and hunting for crazy clues kept the room in motion as guests grazed by the appetizers and
refreshed their drinks at the beverage counters.
From the get-go, volunteers kept the appetizers and tea service rolling while the DJ, Jamie
McQuiston – JM Productions, filled the room with positive tunes as backdrop for easy
conversation.
125 guests enjoyed the enthusiastic volunteers who served drinks throughout the evening. We
thank St. Arnold for their donation of beverages. A flavor-your-own Margarita served in
construction themed cups with stir shovels was a hit which complemented the satisfying fajita
dinner catered by Gringos.
Orphan Grain Train appreciates all who sponsored the fundraiser and all the guests who came
from as far as Katy and Sugar Land to learn more about OGT and provide their backing for the
build of a Servant Center/Warehouse in Pasadena.
Corporate sponsors: ADCO Forestry, Pinnacle Pasadena, Martin/Black, Capital Bank Pasadena,  Kiwanis Pasadena.
Individual sponsors: Susan Jacobs and Zach Rathje.
Board member Erika Adams spearheaded the planning team and Board member Jeff Bibler
presented the history, mission, and goals of the organization which resulted in a successful
evening raising nearly $20,000 with pledges still coming in for the Houston Branch of Orphan
Grain Train.
The Houston Branch is staffed by all-volunteers. OGT is a non-profit organization providing
needed items to people less fortunate and to those needing help after disasters across the
States and abroad.
Contact Mike Rathje, Branch Manager 281-723-4989 for information about how you can help
make a difference in the lives of people in need.

May 2023

**MAJOR UPDATE**
 Orphan Grain Train Houston Branch is, with the help of many gracious individuals and churches, reached the challenge grant goal of $781,455 needed to qualify and receive the $455,000 offered by the Mabee Foundation.  What a huge blessing from God as He worked through each of you to provide for this ministry.  Rev. Ralph Schmidt from OGT headquarters was instrumental in securing funds for the build.  Mr. Dick Rathgeber, a major donor and OGT Houston Board member, also served to bring in other large pledges and donations. To God be the glory!

Churches and individuals within the greater Houston area and as far away as 200 miles in Texas have shown amazing support with donations of blankets, clothes, medical supplies.  We are thankful for the calls and deliveries which come from across town…Houston is wide-spread, so deliveries can be a multi-hour gift of time.
There have been multiple groups, individuals, and numerous churches along with Lutheran South Academy (LSA) who have helped during sorting & packing days.  Recently LSA scheduled high school students to participate in different service projects for non-profits in Houston.  OGT was blessed to watch over 50 teenagers, and staff, tape, count items, pack and label boxes.
We trust in God’s perfect timing on the shipment and construction of the Servant Center. He has provided exciting blessings and solutions at every turn, for which we give Him thanks and glory!