Congressman Gonzalez Shares Information on How to Aid to Harvey Survivors

WASHINGTON – Hurricane Harvey has devastated the Texas coastline leaving many communities without necessary resources like food, water, and shelter. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) is working with federal, state, and local agencies to update South Texans on response efforts and share information on how South Texans can assist recovery efforts.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has advised that cash donations to voluntary and faith-based organizations are the most efficient way to assist relief efforts at this time. These donations allow emergency management teams to quickly provide resources to affected areas. FEMA discourages individuals from sending used clothing or perishable food items as these require the reallocation of relief workers away from disaster zones.

"The road to recovery is going to take weeks, months, maybe even years," Congressman Gonzalez said. "But together, we can help our fellow Texans in need. Together, we can rebuild."

If you choose to donate, Congressman Gonzalez recommends using the website for the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) and/or the Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (Texas VOAD), which list vetted disaster relief organizations.

With heavy rainfall and flooding still expected, Tropical Storm Harvey is still a danger to Texas and parts of Louisiana. Proper safety gear and valid identification are needed for specific disaster areas. Congressman Gonzalez encourages individuals who wish to help to follow agency guidelines for deployment, or potentially face being turned away by law enforcement.

Once again, to donate, please visit the websites for NVOAD at www.nvoad.org/hurricane-harvey/hurricane-harvey-how-to-help/ or the Texas VOAD at txvoad.communityos.org/cms/home.

If you have any further questions regarding how you can provide assistance, please contact FEMA's Congressional Affairs Division at (202) 646-4500.