These are some of the couples with storied pasts in Houston and Texas. Some come from reality and others from the imaginations of creative folks with an eye on the Lone Star State.

HOUSTON – Since reports surfaced that Joel and Victoria Osteen’s Lakewood Church received $4.4 million in Payroll Protection Program loans, the Osteens have responded through Lakewood representatives, saying that it initially did not accept help. A screenshot from the Lakewood Church Facebook announcement that it will reopen for the first time since the start of the pandemic. Believing the shutdown would only last a few weeks, Lakewood did not initially accept PPP assistance during the first half of the program. It is important to note that, since 2004, Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen have not received salaries from Lakewood Church, and the PPP funds do not provide any personal financial benefit to them, whatsoever. Donald IloffThe exterior of Lakewood Church in Houston is seen in this undated image.

HOUSTON – Joel and Victoria Osteen made a six-figure contribution to Houston Astros’ Alex Bregman’s mission to help raise funds for the Houston Food Bank. “We talked with them about what we’re trying to do and how we are trying to help people,” Bregman said. Every $1 donated to the Houston Food Bank can help provide three meals to people in need. If you are healthy and want to make an impact, the Houston Food Bank is taking volunteers to help with the added demand caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Volunteer safety is a priority and appropriate safety measures will be taken, including social distancing.