Between the sheer size of the city, transportation challenges, and language and cultural barriers, being an immigrant in Houston can be a bewildering experience. Add on a community disaster brought on by a severe weather event and many new arrivals will feel completely lost.

Many in our city are still reeling from the destruction brought by derecho storms and tornados on Thursday, May 16, 2024. The storm came quickly, and many were caught unaware. Despite electric technicians working feverishly to return power to the 900,000 or so people without power since the storms, as of Wednesday, May 23rd, 30,839 Houstonians are still without power. And the outdoor temperatures have been at a steady 90 degrees, with a 3-digit heat index. We would like the immigrant community and the HILSC network to know where to find relief in this difficult time, should you need it.

If you are still without power, or still dealing with the effects of being without power for a long time, please find relief in the following list of available resources:

• List of cooling centers and also here
• List of Red Cross open shelters
• If you are receiving SNAP benefits, replace food lost during the storm at the SNAP Replacement Benefit Event on Friday, May 24, 9am – 3pm CT (En Español)

The high winds and tornados that accompanied the storm did not just knock out power lines. Roofs were damaged and structures were hit with flying debris and falling trees. Those whose homes sustained damage during the winds and rains of the derecho can find assistance and resources from the places listed below, especially if you do not have insurance or are underinsured:

• Ready Harris Disaster Recovery Resources
  • Harris County residents should report damage on the Home Damage & Community Needs Assessment Survey
• Harris County residents who may need help with cleanup of debris etc. call Crisis Cleanup: 832-509- 2977
• Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Disaster Prep & Recovery
  • Disaster Relief Hotline: 713-874-6664
  • Catholic Charities is providing limited, short term financial assistance to families who experienced loss from the storm. Apply on website. Families seen by appointment only!
• The Severe Weather and Derecho Recovery Fund is providing financial assistance to uninsured and underinsured low-to-moderate income families (ALICE population) in the affected counties of Harris, Montgomery, and Waller
• Apply for FEMA disaster assistance
  • To qualify for assistance, you must declare that you or someone in your household is a citizen, non-citizen national, or a qualified non-citizen of the United States. Qualifying for FEMA Disaster Assistance: Citizenship and Immigration Status Requirements
• Check here for eligibility to receive a free mattress
• Find free food assistance here, and also in the following areas:  Cypress area, Northeast Houston, Northwest Houston, West Houston,  Spring Branch.
• Find financial assistance in the following areas: Cypress area, Memorial/Heights, Northeast Houston