How to Help Houston After Hurricane Harvey

Hurricane Harvey ravaged the Texas Coast, and left Houston — the nation’s fourth-largest city — and surrounding communities grappling with unprecedented flooding, and rendered a disaster in more than 50 counties along the coast. Thousands of people were displaced by this event will need help to recover. Below are a few resources for those who would like to help.

Goods and Monetary Donations

American Red Cross is one of the biggest and most recognizable organizations aiding those affected by Hurricane Harvey. You can donate to them by visiting their website, calling 1.800.RED CROSS, or texting HARVEY to 90999.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Tuner has established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. The fund is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF), a 501(c)(3) public charity. To make a financial donation, visit the GHCF website, or text HARVEY2017 to 91999.

Austin Disaster Relief Network needs 5,000 to 6,000 welcome kits to distribute to occupants of the various local shelters for Hurricane Harvey victims. Items to add to your welcome kit include a new towel, new washcloth, blanket, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and soap. Once you’ve assembled your welcome kit in a reusable container you can deliver it to Hope Family Thrift Store at 1122 E 51^st Street, Austin, Texas 78723.

Austin Mayor Adler created video to walk you through how to assemble your welcome kit. Watch it at the following URL, where he’s also posted an extensive list of other ways to give. http://www.mayoradler.com/hurricane-harvey-how-you-can-help/

Donating Blood

Another way you can help is through blood donations. As we accept displaced victims into the Austin area, medical needs are rising, including the demand for blood. Help stock your local blood centers to meet their local supply need, enabling them to continue sending resources to Houston and other affected areas. We Are Blood is requesting all available donors come in over the next few weeks to make donations. You can make an appointment at www.WeAreBlood.org or (512) 2016-1266

Helping Displaced Pets

Austin Pets Alive! has taken in over 600+ animals from Harvey’s direct path. Check their website to see how you can help with fosters and donations: https://www.austinpetsalive.org/hurricane-harvey-evacuations/.

Note: You might also inquire about donating your time to any of the organizations mentioned above. Many have been overwhelmed with donations and need assistance processing and distributing.