As Houston and the Texas coast begin the long process of recovery from Hurricane Harvey, many have expressed a desire to help. Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis sent out an email yesterday, which was sent to us by TDI, with several suggestions of organizations that are accepting donations, as well as volunteer options for those who are in the area and a list of needed supplies. We have reprinted the Commissioner’s email below as a handy guide for any of our members who wish to contribute to the recovery efforts.

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Dear Friend,

Over five days ago, the sky darkened over the Gulf Coast and one of the worst national disasters in our nation's history unfolded with devastating horror. Harris County and surrounding regions have been challenged in ways we have never seen before. For days we lived with relentless rain and overcast skies. Thousands have been forced out of their homes by floodwaters and lives were tragically ended by Harvey's wrath. The full extent of the damage is still unknown but this will likely be the costliest national disaster on record.

Amidst all this destruction, our spirits have been kept afloat by the kindness, bravery, and compassion that so many have shown from near and far. And yesterday, the sun finally broke through the darkened sky as if to point a way forward for us all. We have a lot to do in the coming days, weeks, months, and years. There are short-term needs that must be filled now and we must execute a long-term vision that focuses on rebuilding better and smarter than ever before. We must ensure that the most vulnerable among us are aided by a just recovery process and we must reflect critically on our infrastructure.  We have distance to go and we need your help. 

Here is what you can do today

Donate

Several funds have been established to aid our relief and recovery effort. There are also existing organizations mobilizing their networks to provide critical support to those displaced by Harvey and the floods. Here is an overview of just some of the organizations that need your financial support.

Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund: This fund was established by Mayor Turner and administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation; it will provide relief to those directly impacted by Harvey. Support them here.

Harvey Community Relief Fund: This fund was established by several community-based organizations serving and empowering marginalized communities. Their efforts will focus on ensuring that the recovery process is just and equitable for some of the most vulnerable among us. Support them here.

The Red Cross: The Red Cross is actively providing shelter and relief support to the thousands in our shelters. Support them here.

The United Way Relief Fund: The United Way provides crucial support to people impacted by the storm who are trying to navigate how to best receive assistance. Support them here.

Texas Environmental Justice Advocacy Services: T.E.J.A.S is one of the leading environmental justice organizations in Houston, their leadership has been nationally recognized by environmental organizations. They will be working on a broader mission of a just recovery for the Gulf Coast focusing on environmental and climate justice. You can support them here.

ASPCA Disaster Relief: The ASPCA is providing disaster relief to all the pets and other domestic animals harmed by Harvey. They help recover pets from flood affected areas. You can support them here.

Houston Pets Alive: HPA is a local group already on the ground fostering animals displaced by Harvey. You can support them here. 

The Wildlife Center of Texas: This center is our region's leading wildlife rehabilitation center and will no doubt be inundated with displaced and injured wildlife. You can support them here. 

These are just some of the few organizations that you can support today to help all of us through this relief and recovery process. For a list of other local charities working on relief efforts, see here.

Volunteer

The Volunteer Houston website has activated an online Virtual Volunteer Reception Center (VRC)  for those interested in providing assistance to the Greater Houston Region flood relief efforts, sign up here.

The Red Cross is also recruiting volunteers to aid in the relief efforts once conditions allow, sign up here.

BakerRipley just opened a new shelter at NRG Park's NRG Center and those who are interested in volunteering can contact [email protected].

So many people are eager to help, that the response can be overwhelming at times. Be sure to check in with these organizations online or via phone to find out the best option for you to volunteer. Also, consider smaller organizations that might need help or work with your neighbors to begin debris clean-up where it is safe to do so. 

And remember, if you cannot help now, you can always help later. 

Supplies

The following supplies will be needed in the coming days:

• New clothing (t-shirts, socks, sweat pants, underwear, etc.)
• Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows etc.)
• Non-perishable food
• Personal hygiene items (feminine products, soap, shampoo etc.)
• Baby supplies (diapers, unopened formula, bottles etc.)
• Pet supplies (food, carriers/crates, leashes, bowls etc.)  
• Towels

Please note that many of the material needs for shelters are quite dynamic, please check for updates on individual organization's social media accounts, Harris Ready's website, and the City of Houston's Office of Emergency Management website to see what items are in most demand. We do not want our shelters overwhelmed with items they cannot sort or use.  

Finally, I am inspired by all of those who bravely risked their lives to help others, including first responders and private citizens. I am eternally grateful to the Precinct One staff and all members of local government, employees and elected officials alike, that have worked around the clock to guide us through this storm. And my spirits are lifted by all of those who are volunteering and donating money to help our relief and recovery efforts. My enduring thanks to all of you.  

Harvey left us bowed but unbroken. With your help, we will recover and stand strong once more.  

Sincerely,  

Rodney Ellis