Ways to Get Assistance following Winter Storm Uri

The ice may have melted, electricity restored, and typical balmy Houston returned, but the fallout from last week’s Winter Storm Uri is still a cold reality for some members of the University of St. Thomas community. For those who need financial assistance, a warm meal, bottled water, produce, or non-perishable food items, UST and various other Houston organizations are still helping those in need. See below for a list of resources.

UST’s Mobile Food Distribution and the Celt Pantry

Since the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has partnered with the Houston Food Bank to hand out free pre-packaged groceries each month. In wake of last week’s storm, the University is having another food drive Feb. 26 4-6 p.m in the L and O parking lots on campus. Head to the University on Friday for some produce and non-perishable food items, which volunteers will place right in your trunk. Upon arrival, follow these instructions.

If you can’t make it Friday, or prefer to receive confidential help, UST also provides students with free non-perishable food items through the Celt Pantry. If you need assistance, learn more about the Celt Pantry here, or email foodpantry@stthom.edu. 

Disaster Assistance from FEMA

Many people had property damage due to broken pipes.  You can apply for financial disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on its website. Before you apply, FEMA suggests you first take photos of the damage in your home, and then take inventory of damaged or lost items.  Next file a claim with your insurance company if you have insurance, and lastly apply on the FEMA Mobile app or mobile text messages.

Texas Relief Warriors

The non-profit organization Texas Relief Warriors have had their hands full helping Houstonians these last two weeks, and they aren’t stopping any time soon. Since last week the group’s volunteers have been preparing and delivering free warm meals and cases of water bottles to needy residents. See their Facebook page for updates on where to receive assistance. 

You can also follow houstonrecovers.org for a running list of resources.