Red Cross and partners open shelters to assist those affected by Hurricane Beryl

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The American Red Cross with the help of partners have opened emergency shelters across the local area to assist those affected by Hurricane Beryl. Red Cross workers are prepared to provide meals, a place to cool off and safe place to sleep. There are also emergency response vehicles out in the affected communities passing out food, water and emergency supplies.

The local shelters are located at: East Montgomery County Community Center, 16401 First Street, Splendora; Lone Star Convention Center, 2500 Lone Star Pkwy., Montgomery; Sts. Simon & Jude Catholic Parish, 26777 Glen Loch Dr., The Woodlands; and West Montgomery County Community Development Center, 31355 Friendship Dr., Magnolia.

Anyone evacuating to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family:

• Prescriptions and emergency medications
• Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
• Identification and important personal documents
• Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
• Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula, and toys
• Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
• Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
• Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS EMERGENCY APP

Have safety and first aid information at your fingertips. The emergency app features weather alerts, information on open Red Cross shelters, a toolkit with a flashlight, strobe light and alarm, and a one-touch “I’m Safe” button that lets you use social media outlets to let family and friends know you are okay. The apps include a Spanish language toggle switch and can be downloaded by visiting redcross.org/apps.

Stay informed: The Red Cross has several smartphone apps available that will alert you to National Weather Service warnings for severe weather and flash flooding and provide you with preparedness and safety information. These free apps are available at redcross.org/apps.

VOLUNTEERING

The Texas Gulf Coast Region of the American Red Cross is fortunate to have volunteers who are trained, ready and willing to support our response to flooding in our communities. We thank individuals and community groups who are willing to support this effort and encourage them to register to become new volunteers to help with future disaster responses. Learn more and register online at redcross.org/volunteer and complete the online application.

LEARN MORE: For more updates, follow the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast on Twitter and Facebook at @RedCrossTXGC. You can also contact the Greater Houston Chapter at (713) 526-8300, visit https://www.redcross.org/local/texas/gulf-coast.html or call 1-800-REDCROSS.