EMERGENCY RELIEF DURING WINTER STORM
Last week was another challenging time for Houstonians. As we grapple with COVID-19, a winter storm made its way into our city, putting our most vulnerable at risk.
The Salvation Army of Greater Houston is proud to have been a part of the City and County's overall plan to ensure all of our community was kept safe and warm during the inclement weather.
Local preparations were made when we found out the weather would worsen, and people should be prepared to handle a bitter cold. With COVID-19 precautions in mind, Houston and Conroe shelters were ready to intake as much need as possible and prepared for the incoming weather.
"Our efforts in the middle of this pandemic have been extraordinary, and the bitter cold and challenging conditions will not divert us from our mission. Since April 2020, and amid the pandemic, we have housed 584 people and diverted 780 families from homelessness. Since January 1, we've housed 66 people and diverted 25 families," said our Area Commander, Major Zach Bell. "Our priority is the 513 people we have sheltered right now."
Trained Salvation Army staff and volunteers provided for the immediate physical needs of those affected and their emotional and spiritual needs through listening and sharing words of encouragement and prayer. Commendable efforts included a local Samaritan that stormed the weather and "borrowed" all the porta johns from his worksites to provide much-needed bathroom facilities at a Salvation Army shelter when the water unexpectedly turned off.
"We are so grateful for our "outhouse bandit" and know that Houstonians will come together and help us continue to serve in His name. The Salvation Army has been serving the residents of Houston since 1889, providing shelter, food, rehabilitation, and much more, and we will continue to serve throughout this storm and beyond," said Major Bell.
To support The Salvation Army of Greater Houston's ongoing efforts, please make your financial donations at https://give.helpsalvationarmy.org/ or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
