Catastrophe in Houston: How You Can Help (Or Get Help)

Houston is 4th Most Populous City in America

 As fallout from Hurricane Harvey continues, the city of Houston, Texas is experiencing “catastrophic, life-threatening flooding” according to federal officials. There have been a reported five deaths thus far.

The Weather Channel has reported that rainfall from Harvey could reach 50 inches, the highest ever recorded in Texas. The imagery below is indicative of the severity. Below it, ways you can help—or get help if needed.

A friend just sent me these. #harvey pic.twitter.com/KZO0krNfcg

— St. John B. Smith (@stjbs) August 27, 2017

Cypresswood Drive in NW Houston is a river. #Houston #Harvey pic.twitter.com/Gq2Jw9ouBC

— Alyson Ward (@alysonward) August 27, 2017

Tropical Storm Harvey floods Brays Bayou, surrounding areas https://t.co/qXsTf0CsLT pic.twitter.com/paDzZcMdhY

— Francisca Ortega (@quefrankie) August 27, 2017

Truck submerged on I-10 unsure where driver is pic.twitter.com/JkiDYV8bfE

— Jordan Rubio (@jordan_rubio) August 27, 2017

FM 762 washed out! The force of the rushing water led to this giant sinkhole in Rosenberg, TX. We’re here live on @weatherchannel pic.twitter.com/WyCkT9rUxK

— Mike Seidel (@mikeseidel) August 27, 2017 

The Texas Chronicle has reported some ways that you can help:

Red Cross is also seeking blood donations. Texas organization Carter BloodCare and South Texas Blood and Tissue Center are also seeking blood donations. 

Crowdfunding site Global Giving is attempting to raise $2 million for funds that will “exclusively support local relief and recovery efforts from this storm.”

Airbnb has launched a site for  people looking for a place to stay and for those who can offer shelter. Fees are waived for people who check in before  September 1. 

Pets affected by Hurricane Harvey are being taken in by animal shelters across Texas, including the SPCA of Texas, Austin Pets Alive and the San Antonio Humane Society. The Houston Humane Society is also available, with limited staff. 

Other organizations that are accepting donations for disaster relief include the Texas Diaper Bank, Discoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi and the Salvation Army. 

Portlight Inclusive Disaster Strategies is also seeking donations, and focuses on those with disabilities.

Pro Publica has previously published “5 Tips for Donating After Disasters,” a guide for assisting those in need.

NCRM extends our thoughts to all of those dealing with the catastrophe and urges those in the area to remain safe. Some resources and information for those Houston:

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