Serve Brownsville

Dates: Thursday, August 13, 2026 - Sunday, August 16, 2026

Cost: $85 per person

The $85 registration fee is non-refundable and covers volunteer shirts, background checks, two lunches, and one dinner. It does not include hotel or transportation to Brownsville.

Once you register and pay the fee, you will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours containing additional information and next steps. 

Location: Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana, 3049 Lima St, Brownsville, TX 78521

Application Deadline: July 13, 2026

Questions: Contact Teri Ussery at (214) 828-5374 or teri.wmutx[at]txb.org or Vanessa Lerma at (956) 279-5515 or vanessa.wmutx[at]txb.org.

We are collecting school supplies for the children attending schools in Brownsville, Texas, to support families facing significant financial challenges. 

With a poverty rate estimated at 24.9%, more than double the national average, many families in Brownsville struggle to afford basic necessities, including educational materials. 

Serve Brownsville aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens these families face, ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed in their educational journey.

School Supplies Goal: 1,000 Backpacks with Supplies

Age Requirement

All volunteers must be at least 18 years old. No prior experience required. 

Each participant must complete a background check and Ministry Safe Training before July 17, 2025. 

Insurance Requirement

Each participant must be covered by personal health or accident insurance. For short-term insurance options, visit HERE. 

The linked short-term insurance options do not constitute an endorsement by WMU of Texas.

Volunteer Role

Volunteer roles include: School supply sorting and distribution, leading children's crafts, bounce house monitors, Gospel sharing/evangelism, and prayer volunteers.
 

Clothing Suggestions

• Dress moderately in layers appropriate for the weather.

• Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty.

• Sturdy closed-toe shoes are required.

Please be prepared for high temperatures and humidity. Much of the block party setup and event will take place outdoors or in non-air-conditioned spaces. Volunteers should be comfortable standing for long periods and assisting with light lifting (moving school supply boxes).

Provided Meals

We will provide water, snacks, and lunch on-site each day.  A dinner orientation will be provided on August 13. Breakfast and dinner are on your own.

Travel & Lodging

Hotel: Participants are responsible for booking their lodging. Hotel recommendations coming soon. 

Recommended Hotel:

Homewood Suites by Hilton Brownsville, 3759 Frontage Rd, Brownsville, TX 78520 [Get Directions]

Nearest Airport: 

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport

Transportation

WMU of Texas will be available to provide transportation for volunteers to and from the airport and the mission sites throughout the trip. Please arrange transport with Teri Ussery at teri.wmutx[at]txb.org. 

Donate: Bulk Supplies: 

• 1,000 Clear Backpacks [Shop Bulk Backpacks]
• 1,000 School Supply Kits [Shop Bulk School Supplies]

Note: Most schools in the Brownsville area require clear backpacks for campus safety

You may drop off or mail donations to: 

WMU of Texas
10325 Brockwood Rd, Dallas, Texas 75238
Contact: Teri Ussery
Phone: (214) 828-5374
Hours: Monday - Thursday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Texans on Mission
5351 Catron Dr., Dallas, TX 75227
Phone: (214) 275-1100
Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Friday, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana
3049 Lima St, Brownsville, TX 78521
Contact: Vanessa Lerma
Phone: (956) 279-5515
 

Select the button below to support Serve Brownsville financially. 

• Step 1: Open Giving Page
• Step 2: Scroll to the Mission Trip Section
• Step 3: Enter $$ Amount
• Step 4: Select "WMU - Mission Trips" in the drop-down field.
• Step 5: Enter "Serve Brownsville" in the Name Field.

You may also mail a check to WMU of Texas, 10325 Brockwood Rd., Dallas, Texas 75238. Memo: Serve Brownsville.