Houston Responds: Red Cross Opens Shelters Amidst Rising Floodwaters

Jo-Carolyn Goode | 5/2/2024, 4 p.m.
As relentless rains batter Southeast Texas, the American Red Cross has mobilized to provide immediate relief, opening multiple shelters across …


As relentless rains batter Southeast Texas, the American Red Cross has mobilized to provide immediate relief, opening multiple shelters across Harris, Liberty, Polk, San Jacinto, Montgomery, and Trinity Counties. This crucial intervention comes as communities face significant flooding, with rivers surging beyond their banks.

Shawn Schulze, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the Texas Gulf Coast Red Cross, highlighted the organization's rapid response. "Our Southeast Texas community is hurting," Schulze stated. "Our teams and partners are dedicated to providing essential support including warm meals, safe places to sleep, and much-needed comfort to families grappling with the immediate impacts of these floods."

Shelter Locations Now Open:

Harris County: Greenhouse International Church, 200 W. Greens Rd., Houston, TX 77067

Liberty County: Calvary Baptist Church, 816 N Blair Ave, Cleveland, TX 77327

Colony Ridge Community Center

1680 County Road 3549

Cleveland, TX 77327


NCS-Motel 6

1004 S Washington Ave

Cleveland, TX 77327


Montgomery County: Sts. Simon And Jude Catholic Parish, 26777 Glen Loch Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77381

AV Bull Sallas Park Show Barn

21675-C McCleskey Rd

New Caney, TX 77357


Polk County: Dunbar Gym, 1103 Dunbar Street, Livingston, TX 77351

San Jacinto County: County Disaster Shelter, 255 Live Oak, Coldspring, TX 77331

Trinity County: Burning Hope Baptist Church, 301E. Pegoda Rd., Trinity, Texas 75862


Residents seeking shelter are advised to visit redcross.org/shelter, use the Red Cross Emergency App, or contact 1-800-RED-CROSS. Essential items to bring include prescription medications, extra clothing, hygiene supplies, and any necessary items for children such as diapers and toys. Additionally, those with specific medical equipment needs should note that while the Red Cross can provide loaners, availability might vary.

How You Can Help:

In times of disaster, financial contributions provide the quickest, most effective assistance. Donations to the Red Cross help deliver shelter, food, and emergency services. To make a donation, visit redcross.org/donate or text REDCROSS to 90999 to contribute $10 to disaster relief efforts.

Flood Safety Tips:

Avoid Floodwaters: Turn around, don’t drown! Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas.

Evacuate if Necessary: Follow local evacuation orders and do not return until it is declared safe by officials.

Stay Informed: Keep up with local news, NOAA radio, or other reliable sources for the latest weather updates and safety instructions.

The flooding in Texas is a developing situation, and the Red Cross, along with local authorities, continues to monitor and respond as needed. Community safety is a priority, and residents are urged to take all necessary precautions to secure their well-being.

For more detailed information on the shelters and safety tips during floods, stay connected through our dedicated coverage on this ongoing natural disaster. Together, we can support those affected and work towards recovery.

For more information, visit https://www.redcross.org/local/texas/gulf-coast/get-help.html