I was born in Houston, and I’ve always maintained a certain level of pride for my state. It’s fun to play up our stereotypes when the rodeo comes to town — that’s when we feel most Texan — and you can bet we love our BBQ, our country music, and our football as much as they say. But if I’m being honest with myself, I don’t think I ever knew true Texas pride until last week.
Harvey hit home, and suddenly, everything we knew was plastered across our TV screens. The family being airlifted were our neighbors; the reunited couple hugging in waist-high waters were our high school classmates; the man signaling for rescue on the roof was a friend’s father. Stuck in my Austin apartment, I read the endless cries for help on Facebook. I tugged on my hair and my eyes filled with tears as each one was harder to swallow than the last, but just when I thought I couldn’t take any more, the most amazing thing happened: help arrived. One by one, people began to step up. They offered their trucks and their boats and their clothing to help those in need. And you know what? It kind of worked.
There’s no avoiding the wreckage that Harvey brought to our state (and now, to even more of the US), but I’ll be damned if every Texan I know didn’t do everything in their power to help lessen its blow. From Austin, I saw my friends sorting through heaps of donated clothing; I witnessed my mother giving all her grandchildren’s belongings to a family in need; I saw communities rally to strip sheet rock and carpeting our of their elderly’s homes. And the fundraising. More than I could ever fathom.
The goodness of the people has shown through, and I feel more inspired than ever to give love and be kind.
With all the information out there, it can be hard to know how you can help and where to give your money. The American Red Cross does amazing work to provide shelter immediately after a disaster, but if you are hoping to donate to those affected by Harvey directly and assist in their long-term rebuilding efforts, please consider one of the causes below. We’ve listed out six favorites, and paired each with an inspiring story that’ll put a smile on your face.
And don’t miss: A local celebrity and business owner put the people first.
And don’t miss: A midwife. On an inflatable swan. On her way to deliver a baby.
Righteous Paws (This is my rockstar dog groomer! She is driving her truck through affected areas offering her animal expertise to any furry friends in need.)
And don’t miss: Local police herding cattle out of a flooded area through main roads.
And don’t miss: How one of our favorite retailers is creating custom products for a good cause.
NETA (Donate to send feminine hygiene products to those affected by Hurricane Harvey)
And don’t miss: The amazing work that Houston’s favorite athlete is doing to help this town.
And don’t miss: How our state grocer is going above and beyond.
