Natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey are an opportunity for communities to come together to help those in need -- and Fort Worth is playing its part, sending everything from supplies to personnel.
You can join the effort as well. According to the City of Fort Worth, these are the two easiest ways to help:
1. Donate to a local charity organization.
Several organizations are accepting monetary donations to help in relief efforts. This link will take you to the American Red Cross page where you can donate specifically to help victims of Hurricane Harvey. To donate to the Salvation Army, click here. The North Texas Food Bank is also accepting donations.
2. Donate supplies.
If you plan to donate supplies like toiletries, clothing or other household items, make sure you send them to the appropriate place. The city recommends that donations not be delivered to shelters, but to Trusted World at 15660 North Dallas Parkway in Dallas. The reason, according to the city, is that shelters do not have adequate staffing or storage for the supplies, so it is more efficient to bring items to Trusted World so that they can be distributed based on specific needs.
The city is also taking part in rescue operations. Here's a by-the-numbers look at how Fort Worth is showing support so far:
30
The number of Fort Worth Fire Department officers deployed and working with TX Taskforce 1 (equipment such as boat, ropes, and search and rescue suits are also deployed)
5
The number of shelters Fort Worth is prepared to open
350
The total capacity of the Fort Worth shelters available for evacuees
5
The number of people on the Fort Worth Fire Chainsaw Crew sent to help hurricane relief efforts
4
The number of personnel from the Fort Worth Police Department's Special Events Emergency Response team deployed (plus one vehicle and one trailer)
1
Deployed Medstar ambulance
211
The number that self-evacuees should call for instructions on sheltering. The service is provided by United Way.
For more information on how to help or volunteer, visit the city's website.