Sending support to Texas
In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, it is becoming clear that it is going to take time and incredible resources to rebuild not just the city of Houston, but the whole region. If you would like to contribute to sending support to Texas, and helping with the immediate need for emergency relief and to rebuilding this area, here are some suggestions:
GIVE
This is not an exhaustive list but offers some suggestions for organizations and initiatives providing both immediate and longer term support to those affected by Harvey in Texas.
Baker Ripley – this community non-profit in Houston is running one of the city’s largest emergency shelters at NRG stadium as well as providing a range of emergency relief. They will work with other agencies to support long term recovery for those who need it more. LEARN MORE | DONATE HERE
JJ Watt: if you have spent any time in Texas recently, you’ll know that this Texans player is one of the state’s favorite sons. His crowdfunding campaign has raised more than $25m already. CONTRIBUTE HERE
The Harvey Relief Fund: established by Houston’s Mayor and administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. CONTRIBUTE HERE
Salvation Army of Greater Houston: works across Fort Bend, Harris and Montgomery counties to provide relief and long-term support. DONATE HERE
Houston Food Bank: one of the largest food banks in the US, it also provides support to other regional agencies. DONATE HERE
United Way of Greater Houston: this major appeal will allow you to direct your contribution to the area of your choice or to where it is needed most. CONTRIBUTE HERE
To support communities closer to Corpus Christi and Rockport, please consider United Way of Coastal Bend or American Red Cross. Currently Google, Amazon and United Airlines are matching donations made to the Red Cross so please consider stretching your donation by giving via their platforms.
Undies for Everyone: underwear is one of the items not being donated. Brene Brown has appealed for donations to this local non-profit to help evacuees – you can use their wishlist to keep up to date on the needs.
GET HANDS ON
Texas Muck Map: if you’re willing to help someone clear their home, check out this is new interactive map to find families looking for help to remove wet carpets, flooring, dry wall, mud and debris. REGISTER TO ASSIST | RECEIVE HELP
Volunteer Houston: has a special disaster relief area and also connects potential volunteers with ongoing opportunities – VOLUNTEER
Baker Ripley/NRG emergency shelter: SIGN UP HERE
George R Brown Convention Center: SIGN UP HERE
The situation across Texas is changing rapidly and spreads far beyond Houston. Try reaching out to the local United Way to find out more about emerging needs and the agencies providing support on the ground.
Coming soon … ways to be of assistance and help for flood victims in India, Bangladesh and Nepal.
Author: Sarah Black
Originally from Ireland, Sarah Black moved overseas for the first time at 40! She previously lived in Stavanger, Norway and is currently in Sugar Land, Texas with her husband and two rescue dogs. A former marketing & communications consultant, she is passionate about non-profit work, community involvement and volunteering. She is writes about expat and triangle life, and whatever else might come up! When not writing or working, she is volunteering, travelling, planning her next trip or walking her own or shelter dogs.
