As a Houston resident, the impact of Hurricane Harvey has left me glued to the news, constantly checking my phone for alerts about tornadoes and flash floods. I often found myself asking, “Is this actually happening?” The rapid emergence of Hurricane Harvey felt overwhelming, leaving little time for proper preparation.
Could this be Houston’s equivalent of Hurricane Katrina? I initially dismissed the thought. After all, Houston is situated 40 miles inland and elevated 50-100 feet above sea level. My husband, a civil engineer specializing in land development, reassured me that our home was in a safe zone according to flood plain maps. Yet, despite being outside the 500-year flood zone, we came alarmingly close to flooding. That’s the sheer scale of Hurricane Harvey.
The storm unleashed three days and nights of relentless anxiety, where we went to bed wondering if we’d awaken to a tornado or rising water. Having grown up in Cajun Country, I considered myself somewhat of a hurricane veteran, believing I was prepared.
However, Harvey proved to be different. It brought not just wind and rain, but a prolonged onslaught that lasted far longer than typical storms. The devastation did not discriminate; friends in both mobile homes and sprawling estates faced loss. Those from lower-income backgrounds will find it especially challenging to rebuild, and retirees on fixed incomes will struggle as well.
As a parent, I grappled with the overwhelming responsibility of making critical decisions for my children. Should we evacuate? Where should the kids sleep to ensure their safety if a tornado approached? Should we even attempt to sleep, or would it be wiser to take turns monitoring the weather? Every emergency alert brought the haunting possibility of a tornado, and we received at least 20 over just three days.
In the end, I had to remind myself that I was an adult and a parent. It was time to step up and hope I was making the right choices for my family. Thankfully, our home was spared, yet feelings of guilt crept in. Why were we fortunate when so many others faced devastation?
I began to understand that perhaps losing possessions could serve as a life lesson about the true value of what we hold dear. However, the reality is that many lost irreplaceable items—family heirlooms, photographs, and essential belongings. Instead of succumbing to guilt, I realized it was crucial to focus on how we could assist those who weren’t as lucky.
#HoustonStrong has become a rallying cry, uniting people in their efforts to support those in need. Many who lost their homes stepped up to help others, simply stating, “Because we can.” If you find yourself feeling guilty, channel that energy into meaningful action.
So, what can you do to help? Here are nine suggestions:
- Assist with FEMA Aid and Insurance Claims
Many affected individuals are overwhelmed and exhausted. Offer to help with paperwork and phone calls, making the process a little easier for them. - Donate Money or Specific Items
Research organizations that are requesting targeted donations. Well-meaning but generic contributions often don’t meet the specific needs of those affected. - Provide Food and Drinks
Help families who are cleaning up and repairing their homes, as well as first responders and volunteers who have been working tirelessly. - Babysit for Affected Families
Offering childcare allows parents to focus on recovery efforts while giving kids a chance to have fun and relieve stress. - Volunteer for Cleanup
Offer your time to help local homeowners and businesses recover from the disaster. - Visit Nursing Homes
Consider the elderly who have been uprooted during the storm. Many staff members have been working around the clock to care for residents. - Volunteer at Shelters
These locations are inundated with evacuees and need help sorting donations, serving food, and assisting with logistics. - Involve Your Kids in Volunteer Work
Children often don’t grasp the severity of such situations. Engaging them in helping others can foster understanding and empathy. - Focus on Your Blessings
Instead of feeling guilty about what you have, recognize that your resources can make a significant difference in the lives of those who have lost so much.
This moment presents a wonderful opportunity to extend kindness and support to those affected by Harvey.
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Summary:
Hurricane Harvey’s impact on Houston was profound, affecting residents across various socioeconomic backgrounds. The storm’s lengthy duration caught many off guard, leading to tough decisions for families. Instead of feeling guilty for being spared, individuals are encouraged to focus on ways to support those who lost everything, through volunteering, donations, and more.
Keyphrase: Hurricane Harvey Support
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