Joel Osteen's huge Houston church is open to those needing shelter and volunteers are delivering and sorting donations for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey's devastating impact.
PAST COVERAGE: Why Joel Osteen's church wasn't immediately available as a shelter
A previous message read, "Lakewood's doors are open to anyone needing shelter. We are looking for volunteers & collecting shelter supplies."
Houston responded in a powerful way, as evidenced by photos of people delivering and sorting items. One photo posted by the church shows residents, including a man with his dog, who have come to seek refuge.
NEW: Joel Osteen discusses storm response on "Good Morning America"
Lakewood spokesperson Don Iloff, Osteen's brother-in-law, told The Christian Post on Monday that several church leaders had to be rescued from their own homes. Osteen and his family are ok - " They are on pretty high ground" - but had been without power, Iloff said then. He also said he wasn't aware of anyone who had come to the church seeking shelter, saying, "They would have to swim to get there."
Iloff also told The Christian Post the church is partnering with Samaritan's Purse on disaster relief, and that the facility, a former NBA arena, likely will host a fundraiser soon.
Osteen has come in for both criticism and support as Houston remains in Harvey's grip, with many demanding to know why his church wasn't operating as a storm shelter. Photos posted from the scene indicate flooding at the church site, although other photos and video clips suggest the church wasn't damaged.
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