The best ways Austinites can help first responders and evacuees of Harvey

The City of Austin and Travis County are grateful for the outpouring of support and donations from individuals and businesses who want to support Hurricane Harvey evacuees currently in Austin. FOX 7 has complied a list to make it easier for people, groups, and corporations interested in supporting the evacuees to assist.

Where can donations be made?

You can purchase items that are needed on the Hurricane Harvey Community Relief Effort Amazon Wish List.

You can also contact the Red Cross at 800-928-4271 or visit redcross.org for donation information.

The Austin Disaster Relief Network is accepting both monetary and survivor item donations.

Travis Austin Recovery Group is accepting monetary donations.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund, which will accept tax deductible flood relief donations for victims that have been affected by the recent floods.

Governor Greg Abbott also announced a Rebuild TX fund for Harvey relief.

The Coastal Bend Long Term Recovery Group is also accepting monetary donations.

Mayor Steve Adler is also calling on Austinites to make welcome kits for Harvey evacuees. To learn what items you should include and where you can drop them off, click here.

Corporations interested in making monetary donations can click here.

Can I volunteer?

You can browse GivePulse.com or the Coastal bend Long Term Recovery Group for volunteer opportunities with many Central Texas agencies. There are no current needs for volunteers for the Central & South Texas Region of the American Red Cross due to overwhelming support in the Austin region.

Where can I donate blood?

We Are Blood is currently accepting blood donations at three locations in North Austin, South Austin, and Round Rock and walk-ins are accepted. All blood types are needed but O Positive and O Negative are needed most. Blood donations will be needed through the end of August. 

How is coastal evacuee shelter information shared with the public?

Updates are available by calling 311 or 512-974-2000, in the local area.

Are hurricane shelters available to the public?

Yes. Call 311 or 512-974-2000 for the latest information on shelter location.

Are pets allowed at the shelter? What shelters are available for livestock?

Yes. If you have household pets, bring them with you to the shelter and arrangements will be made to house them onsite or at a nearby location. The Travis County Expo Center (7311 Decker Ln. 78724) is available for sheltering livestock. Please contact 311 for more information.

How can I check on a loved one or register myself as safe? Visit SafeAndWell.org.

Where do I go for emergency clothes and assistance?

Call 211 for food and clothing emergencies.

Where can I obtain information from the Mexican Consulate?

Call 1-855-463-6395 to reach your local consulate office.

Can I go back to my home after evacuating yet?

Stay in Austin until officials deem it safe to return. Call 311 for more information.

How can I receive help from FEMA?

Call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362) or visit online if you have questions about the type of help offered by FEMA and how to apply for assistance.

If you are experiencing a psychiatric crisis, call Integral Care's 24/7 Crisis Helpline: 512-472-HELP (4357). The Crisis Helpline provides 24/7 access to licensed counselors.

Helpline callers receive immediate assistance, crisis intervention services (if needed) and referral to additional community resources. 24/7 Crisis Helpline: 512-472-HELP (4357) - Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, then 1 for mental health crisis

Toll-Free: 844-398-8252
TTY: 512-703-1395
www.integralcare.org/247-crisis-helpline