As you probably already know, Austin is currently surrounded by a ring of fire. Wildfires have been breaking out all around the city, and all around the state, wiping out tens of thousands of acres, and hundreds of homes. The devestation is mind boggling, and the speed at which is continues is terrifying. Though temperatures here are dropping, and winds are dying down, our fire fight is far from over.
This is especially true for the countless people who have lost their homes due to these disastrous fires. Texas has been hit hard, and I know that a lot of us here are feeling a bit helpless at the moment. I'd like to urge anyone reading my blog to please take a moment to think about how you can help. The Red Cross of Central Texas is currently collecting donations to aid in relief, but many other organizations are also busy collecting items necessary to shelters and firefighters. Things like canned food, bottled water, clothing and personal care items are in high demand. The following list highlights some of the drives going on in our area. Please take the time to make a donation, wether it be in money, food, or other items. After looking at the lists, check around your home for things that you can donate, and drop them off at a collection point. This small errand can make a huge difference when repeated by many.
Spread the Word
I'll also ask you to please put the word out for others to help. Post the following message to your Facebook, Twitter, or blog asking your friends and family to take part in the relief efforts going on here in Texas.
Over 700 homes have been lost in the Texas Wildfires. Learn how you can help. http://tinyurl.com/TXFireRelief
Where to Make Cash Donations
- Cash donations can be made directly to the Red Cross of Central Texas
Where & What to Donate: Food & Supplies
Austin Christian Fellowship at 6401 River Place Boulevard
- bottled water
- sports drinks
- non-perishable snacks
- toiletries
- work gloves
- heavy duty trash bags
- flashlights
- batteries
- pet food
The OASIS on Lake Travis
- water
- work gloves
- toiletries
- non-perishable food items
- clothing
- trash bags
- flash lights with batteries
Diocese of Austin Pastoral Center at 6225 Highway 290 East from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Donations will also be accepted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Catholic Charities of Central Texas in Austin at 1817 East Sixth Street.
- Medical Supplies
• BP Cuff
• Nebulizer
• Thermometer
• Glucometer
• Pen lights
• Tongue Depressors
• Ibuprofen
• Gauze Wrap
• ACE Bandages
• Neosporin Cream
• Bandages - Other Supplies:
• Sleeping Bags
• Blankets
• Pillows
• Towels
• Shampoo
• Body wash
• Toothpaste
• Paper Plates, Cups, Napkins, Plastic Utensils
• Deodorant Sprays for men and women
• Disposable Razors
• Shaving Cream
• Baby Wipes
• Size 4 Diapers
• Baby Shampoo
• Sanitizer
The Capitol Area Food Bank (CAFB food donations can be made at the following locations)
- CAFB warehouse located at 8201 S. Congress Avenue, Austin , TX 78745 (8-5 p.m. or leave in boxes on dock outside of those hours)North Donation Spots for CAFB
- Georgetown – Caring Place at 2000 Railroad St., Georgetown, TX 78627 - 512-869-473
- Round Rock Serving Center at 1099 East Main St., Round Rock, TX 78664 - 512-244-2431
- SVDP Round Rock – 620 Round Rock West -Round Rock, TX 78681 – 512-255-2330
To hold a food drive at your workplace, school, church etc., CAFB has large food donation boxes available for pick up at their warehouse. Once filled please return to CAFB or call 512-282-2111 to arrange for a pick up.
Most desired food donations are healthy, non-perishable items such as:
- Water, Gatorade
- Ready to eat meals preferably with pull up or pop tops, e.g. chili, stew, canned pasta w/sauce
- Single serving snacks such as protein or granola bars
- Lunchables or other single serving foods that do not require refrigeration
- Diapers
- Baby formula
More Ways to Help
For a more comprehensive list of donation centers, drives, and volunteer info, please visit the following articles from local news sources:
- How you can help the fire victims by KVUE.com
- Donation Dropoff Locations for Fire Victims by KUT.org
Bloggers across Texas are helping spread the word about helping Wildfire victims. To check out some of their posts, please visit the frog below:
