How to Help Houstonians Heal
Well, Harvey has come and gone. Last weekend when we published our article on the nature of the storm, we had no idea just how catastrophic this event would be. Now that the sun has reappeared, we are starting to see in complete clarity just how strong of an impact Harvey has had on our beloved city. In doing so, we feel encouraged to speak for our neighbors and friends in giving some advice on how to help Houstonians heal, post-Harvey.
First and foremost, there are countless in organizations in need of monetary or item based donations to help those displaced by the storms. The America Red Cross, Texas SPCA, Houston Food Bank , Houston Flood Relief organized by NFL great JJ Watt, Texas Diaper Bank and Donate Relief Efforts are just a few who have active relief drives and events throughout the city. But the following is really in regards to help the Houstonians in your life on a personal level, in the trying weeks to come.
1) Send personal encouragement.
This seems obvious to many, but it seems nearly impossible to sum up just how meaningful this can be. Whether it be a simple card, an encouraging voicemail or even just a silent prayer- the power of individuals putting others before themselves is as humbling as it is powerful. While these actions may seem miniscule in the grand scheme of life, you truly never know the magnitude of your support. Many will read your card as they package what’s left of their belongings, or hear your voicemail as the repair the immense damage in their homes. These moments have the power to be so overwhelmingly dark, so seemingly hopeless- until a beacon of support is given to them by a simple action with a beautifully complex effect.
2) Don’t forget.
Our world is so overly stimulated on a day to day basis. It seems as though we can’t get a grasp on one news story before another arises, as our world continues to overflow with people, events, and controversies that beg for our attention. But for us Houstonians I challenge you to not forget about Hurricane Harvey. To not forget about the struggling city, no matter how far away, that is working tirelessly to rebuild. To not forget about the people whose lives were forever changed this past week. I encourage you to be the one who reminds yourself, and those around you, to continue praying for, helping with, and extending reverence to the victims of Harvey- even amidst the continuing news stories in the weeks and months to come.
3) Stand with us.
There’s an existing theory stating that between each person in the world, there exists six degrees of separation. I find so much comfort in this theory, in the idea that we can all be connected in some way or another. So for the last bit of advice, I want to suggest a theory of my own: that in some way, we are all connected to Houstonians whether we know it or not. During tragedies like this, it’s easy to feel a sense of removal if you aren’t in the same area, or perhaps worse- like you don’t have a right to grieve alongside those immediately affected. This theory grants permission to every single person to cry alongside us, hope alongside us, and stand alongside us as we pick up the pieces and move forward to make this city even better than it was before. As a Houstonian myself I can tell you, we are glad to have anyone and everyone stand with us on this mission.
by delaney sanders
SHESHE’S TIDBITS
- I shared some beautiful photos of the Houston skyline. It has so many times been referred to as the Emerald City. Remember the Emerald City? Wizard of Oz? Did you guess that right? It really is a beautiful place and it will be whole once again with your help.
- Norman and I took a road trip to Austin Friday for the Texas Longhorn’s first home football game to relax and recharge. I feel guilty for having a little fun and change of scenery, but I know that when we return to Houston today, we will be better equipped mentally and emotionally to jump right back in and do what we can to help those in need. The gulf coast has a multi billion dollar price tag on it to repair, rebuild and restore lives and businesses. Please GIVE!!
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