HARLINGEN — With what seemed like rain without an end, came the disastrous aftermath of flooded and damaged Valley homes.
But when disasters like this strikes, the American Red Cross moves quickly to provide services for those with no other choice but to flee their homes.
The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region opened five shelters throughout Cameron, Willacy and Hidalgo counties to aid those impacted by flooding.
The shelters will be open 24 hours a day and will provide food, water, health services and emotional support.
According to American Red Cross Regional Communications Program Manager Ekland Durousseau, the shelters provided aid to nearly 100 people Tuesday night.
“Shelters have been opened to provide a safe refuge for anyone whose home may have been impacted by recent severe flooding,” said Henry Van de Putte, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast. “Our volunteers stand ready to respond should additional assistance be needed.”
Finding a shelter
Cameron County residents in need of assistance can take shelter at the La Feria Community Safe Room or the Santa Rosa Elementary School.
The Willacy County Community Safe Room also has been opened as a shelter.
Hidalgo County residents in need of assistance can take shelter at the Edcouch Fire Department or the Mercedes SafeDome/Recreation Center.
What to take
The American Red Cross recommends for anyone evacuating to a shelter to bring essential items such as prescriptions, emergency medications, personal documents and foods that meet dietary requirements.
Additionally, families are recommended to bring chargers, extra hygiene supplies, special items for elderly or disabled family members, books, games and supplies needed for children such as diapers and formula.
“Essentially when you come to a shelter, it’s a home away from home,” Durousseau explained. “So, I would stress bringing the things that are hard to come by and are very specific to you.”
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
• For American Red Cross disaster assistance updates, call the South Texas Chapter at (956) 423-0523.
• Volunteers are needed to distribute food and provide other services to those in need.
• To volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
OPEN SHELTERS
• Willacy County Community Safe Room, 10804 Business 77, Raymondville
• La Feria Community Safe Room, 1001 Pancho Maples
• Mercedes SafeDome /Recreation Center, 1202 North Vermont
• Edcouch Fire Department, 200 West Santa Rosa Avenue
• Santa Rosa Elementary School, 102 South Main Street
