Austin in Crisis: Local Charities and How You Can Help
Texans continue to brave the catastrophic aftermath of Winter Storm Uri. Thousands of Austin residents remain without power or access to clean drinking water, and many area groceries have been wiped clean of stock. Below are just a few of the local charities and organizations currently working to bring food, shelter and supplies to Austin’s most vulnerable populations.
Food and Lodging Assistance
As many continue to go without heat or access to food, a range of Austin charities are focusing on providing shelter and meals to vulnerable residents. Austin-based hospitality groups Taste of Koko, 365 Things, and the MYLK Collective are currently collaborating to purchase meals from local eateries for affected residents. To donate, click here. Likewise, the Austin EMS Relief Fund is accepting donations to help feed first responders who are serving the community in the wake of the winter storm. Their donation page can be found here.
For those currently without shelter, Austin Mutual aid is working to provide hotel accommodations. Donations can be made through the group’s GoFundMe, or via either of their two Venmo accounts: @austinmutualaidhotels and @austinmutualaid. Drop-off locations for food, toiletries and other essentials have been set up at Cuatro Gato/Arepa Dealers, and Forever Eternal Moments in Austin.
Good Work Austin’s Community Kitchen is partnering with local restaurants to serve food at hotels and warming centers around the city. Partner locations include Loca d’Ora, Reunion 19, Salt & Time and Baby Greens. Click here to help fund the group’s meal program.
Austin Pets Alive is a nonprofit organization focused on aiding Austin’s four-legged citizens. The group is currently collecting drinkable water for both pets and their owners, in addition to fuel for power generators and cold-weather clothing for those tending to livestock. Monetary donations for supplies and animal care are currently being accepted. Residents can visit the group’s Facebook page to request specific items for their pets.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you wish to volunteer and can do so safely, several organizations throughout Austin are in need of volunteer workers at this time. Many cold weather shelters and warming centers are looking for staff to maintain their facilities, as well as volunteers to assist in emergency transport. The City of Austin is looking for owners and operators of 4×4/Off-Road vehicles capable of transporting workers, goods, supplies and more during this ongoing emergency. Click here to be placed on-call for Austin’s Winter Weather Response Team.
The Austin Disaster Relief Network is also searching for qualified medical personnel to volunteer at Austin’s primary warming center: The Palmer Events Center. Click here to register.
Any additional businesses, organizations or individuals wishing to aid the Austin community can donate to the ADRN by filling out this form.
We wish all the best for our readers during this difficult time.
