Photo by Chuck Haupt for the American Red Cross

As some Houston residents return to “normal” life, others are still facing the heartbreaking effects of Hurricane Harvey or have yet to return home. One of the worst hurricanes in Texas history, Hurricane Harvey impacted millions of lives, destroying homes, business, vehicles, and so much more. Between August 26th and August 31st, Harvey pummeled Houston with 19 trillion gallons of rain^[1], costing $190 billion^[2] and at least 70 lives^[3].

It has been over 2 weeks since Harvey made landfall, and many of us are still in a daze and somewhat numb, asking ourselves “did this really happen?”

But Houstonians have truly shown how strong they are, and people from all over the US have displayed such kindness and humanity. We at ExecuTeam & Team1Medical want you to know we are here for you. We hope that all those affected by Hurricane Harvey are safe and getting the recovery aid needed.

If you would like to help the recovery and relief effort, we’ve provided some information about how you can help.

How to Help: Donate

Blood

The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center has been working diligently the past couple of weeks to collect blood for those affected by Harvey. While there is always a need for blood donations, the need is much greater after a natural disaster. And the heavy demand will continue for months. Remember, red blood cells only have a shelf life of 42 days^[4]. So schedule an appointment to give blood today.

Money

Mayor Sylvester Turner and County Judge Ed Emmett established the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund housed by the Greater Houston Community Foundation to aid victims affected by the Houston floods. Provide your tax-deductible donation by web or by texting HARVEY2017 to 91999 from your mobile device.

You can also help those who help others. During the storm, Memorial Hermann employees put patients first, going above and beyond to provide healing and compassionate care, despite their own personal losses. To help their employees in the recovery process, Memorial Hermann has created the Memorial Hermann Harvey Relief Fund. 100% of your gift will go to the employees impacted by the storm. Donate online or by mailing your contribution to:

Memorial Hermann Foundation – Harvey Relief Fund for Employees
929 Gessner, Suite 2650
Houston, TX 77024

Food & Supplies

While the Houston Food Bank has provided disaster relief for many years, the need caused by Hurricane Harvey was unprecedented. Until further notice, the Houston Food Bank will be accepting curbside donations at 535 Portwall Street, Houston, TX 77029. They are still in need of many items, including:

• Canned ready-to-eat items with pull tops: vegetables, fruit
• Protein in pouches or pull-top cans: tuna, beef stew, chili,
  canned chicken
• Peanut butter
• Snacks: granola bars, breakfast bars, etc.
• Toiletries
• Paper goods
• Diapers
• Cleaning supplies: mops, mop buckets, brooms, bleach wipes,
  bleach, garbage bags, bug spray

Time

In the wake of a natural disaster, the best thing you can donate is your time. Many organizations throughout Houston need volunteers for long-term recovery, and will continue needing assistance for months. Whether it be taking in guests at NRG Center with Baker Ripley, or sorting through food and supplies and supporting events for the Houston Food Bank, a couple hours of your day can truly change someone’s life. For more information about non-profit organizations in your are,  collaborate with Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD).

Remember, Houston will recover, rebuild and be as strong as ever. And we are here for you.

Whether you are ready to get back to work, or you’re in search of more employees, ExecuTeam Staffing and Team1Medical Staffing are here to help. Our office is up and running, and our team is ready to provide you with the excellent service you have come to expect from us. Please let us know if we can assist you in any way.

#HOUSTONSTRONG 

[1] USA TODAY: Charting Hurricane Harvey’s jaw-dropping size and destruction

[2] Forbes: We Looked Into The Effects Of Hurricane Harvey And Here’s What We Found

[3] NBC Dallas/Fort Worth: Hurricane Harvey Death Toll Hits 70

[4] American Red Cross: Donation FAQs