Emergency shelter preparations are underway across Southeast Texas as Winter Storm Fern threatens to bring dangerous travel conditions and prolonged cold to the region.
Officials with the American Red Cross – Texas Gulf Coast Region said multiple shelter teams are being assembled in anticipation of opening shelters across the organization’s 17-county chapter area.
Community Disaster Program Managers are actively coordinating with local emergency managers to support both current and anticipated needs as the storm develops.
Because of significant travel challenges expected during the storm, the American Red Cross – Texas Gulf Coast Region is preparing to open and staff more than 20 shelters. In addition to operating those locations, officials said they are also preparing to provide staffing support and supplies to partner shelters throughout the region.
Organizers are reaching out to community partners and the public for help identifying potential volunteers, particularly individuals willing to serve as shelter workers. Officials said they are especially in need of volunteers who can remain onsite overnight for a couple of nights.
Shelter workers will operate in shifts and will not be on duty continuously, allowing time for rest. Remaining onsite is requested due to safety concerns related to expected weather and travel conditions.
Anyone who may be interested in serving as a shelter worker, or who knows someone willing to help, is encouraged to contact the American Red Cross – Texas Gulf Coast Region as preparations continue and conditions evolve. Call 409-673-8118 for more information.
According to A.J. Johnson, director of the Liberty County Office of Emergency Management, the American Red Cross is bringing blankets and care kits (hygiene products) that will be distributed to the four warming centers in Liberty County, located at: Dayton Police Department 2004 N. Cleveland St., Dayton: VFW Post 5621, 1520 N. Main St., Liberty; Calvary Baptist Church, 816 N. Blair, Cleveland; and the Santa Fe Administration and Activities Building, 1680 CR 3549, Cleveland. The Santa Fe building will be open only if there are power outages in the area.