How to help and get help in Texas as the winter storm causes power outages
Megan Menchaca, The Texas Tribune
Feb. 17, 2021
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Linda Hollins checks on her friend Velma Williams during a power outage in Third Ward Monday, Feb. 15, 2021, in Houston.Steve Gonzales/Staff photographer
City officials, local outreach teams and other organizations are providing warming shelters and support for people seeking help. Many nonprofit organizations are also asking for donations so they can help people experiencing homelessness or those who are in need of support. Here’s a list of the resources being offered in cities across the state.
Austin, TX -
In response to the severe cold weather event, the City of Austin is partnering with multiple governmental and public agencies including Travis County, Capital Metro, the Austin Independent School District, the University of Texas, and Austin Community College to provide critical services to the community.
The City of Austin and partners have activated multiple 24-hour cold weather shelters across the city to protect people without housing from potentially deadly weather conditions forecasted for the coming days. Activation of emergency services are occurring within the health and safety guidelines required for COVID-19.
Anyone needing shelter can report to the Palmer Event Center 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 for services. Due to icy road conditions, bus service has been suspended. When limited Capital Metro resumes, use routes 1, 7, 10, 20, 801, and 30. Families with children may arrive at Downtown Salvation Army Shelter located at
City of Austin partners with community to provide 24-hour cold shelters
By Cory Dinkel
This type of weather is not something to take lightly.
AUSTIN, Texas - The City of Austin, Travis County, and community partners have activated 24-hour cold weather shelters across the city to protect people without housing from potentially deadly weather conditions forecasted for the coming days in the Central Texas area. Activation of emergency services are occurring within the health and safety guidelines required for COVID-19.
The city says that moving forward, cold weather shelters will be operating 24 hours a day for as long as conditions dictate. Those sheltering will be offered the opportunity to remain during the day and the upcoming nights.