The Hogg Foundation offers its deepest condolences to those impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Houston and throughout southeast Texas, and for the lives lost. As this unprecedented tragedy continues to unfold, our hearts are with the people directly affected, their families and communities. Our thoughts are also with those who will be coping with the mental health impact of this disaster, and we are acting to ensure that their needs remain high on the agenda.
It’s been humbling to witness how these two weeks have brought out the best in Texans as countless people answer the call to give time, money and labor to help communities get back on their feet.
Several of our staff have been contacted by people inquiring about resources and support for consumers who are affected by the hurricane. We’ve compiled this short list of resources to help address the immediate pain people are feeling, the urgent need for assistance and relief, and the generous intentions of so many folks hoping to contribute in meaningful ways. Intended both for those seeking assistance as well as those who would like to help, these are not official endorsements, nor is this list exhaustive. We hope that you share this information, as well as any other ideas you may have.
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency has set up an expansive online resource page.
- If you’re seeking open shelters, this Red Cross page can help. The Red Cross has also set up a donation page.
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
- The Texas Department of State Health Services has set up a volunteer registry for medical, public health and lay volunteers (including mental health professionals).
- Our friends at Texas Network of Youth Services have put together this extensive list of ways to help child welfare and youth service organizations affected by Harvey.
- United Ways of Texas has set up a page filled with links to local United Way disaster relief funds around the state. Donations are sorely needed.
- The Crisis Text Line provides free 24/7 support to people in crisis.
The Hogg Foundation is currently weighing a variety of options for a long-term response to this tragedy. In addition to the volunteering our staff is already doing, we are considering coordinated activity with other parts of the University of Texas community, grants to outside organizations, and collaborations with our philanthropic partners. Anything we decide will be announced in a timely fashion. The foundation has numerous grantees in the affected areas, and they’re in our hearts as well.
We stand in solidarity with all of you, and with all of the inspiring efforts underway to ensure that we minimize near-term suffering and maximize long-term resilience in the face of this crisis.
Photo credit: U.S. Air Force