Ramirez Report - Recovery May 2024

Since the storm hit Houston, my staff and I have been working with the Mayor, the Houston Office of Emergency Management, departments within the City of Houston, community groups, and corporate sponsors, to help residents deal with the effects of the storm and return to normal. Like you, we have lost power and sustained damage at our own homes and know some of what you are going through. It is wonderful to see how Houstonians support each other in times of adversity. If we can do anything more to help you, please reach out.

We wanted to take time to share some important information as we go into the next phase. We have compiled essential details on reporting damage, filing claims, power restoration, cooling centers, resource distribution, debris removal, and solid waste collection to ensure a smooth process during this time.

You can reach the At Large 1 team by email at atlarge1@houstontx.gov if you still have questions or need assistance.

Be sure to follow the At Large 1 team on Facebook at Facebook

for updates and information.

• Insurance Claims - Thoroughly document the damage in your home by taking photos and videos. If you have insurance, you should file a claim with your insurance company immediately. 

• FEMA Assistance - This weather event is a federally declared disaster. You can now apply for Federal Disaster Assistance with FEMA. For more information go to http://fema.gov/disaster/4781

• IHP Assistance - Under the Individual and Households Program, FEMA may provide those eligible with financial and/or direct assistance to address housing-related needs. You can apply: 
• Online at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• Calling 1-800-621-3362 

• SBA Loans - The US Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to residents in major disaster areas. You do not need to own a business to apply. Apply at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

• iSTAT Damage Report - Please report damage to TX Division of Emergency Management iSTAT Form - This allows city officials to track damage and bring needed resources into the area. Fill out the form at https://damage.tdem.texas.gov/

• CenterPoint has released a Power Outage Tracker and Restoration Map which can be viewed at bit.ly/PowerHOU  
• CenterPoint suggests signing up for their Power Alert Service to receive timely updates at https://www.centerpointenergy.com/en-us/residential/customer-service/electric-outage-center?sa=ho 
• Call CenterPoint to report power outages at 800-332-7143 

Several cooling centers and water distribution locations are now open across the city to help you stay cool and hydrated. This list changes daily, so please consult.

Anyone without air conditioning can seek relief at any of the following city locations designated as cooling centers: https://www.houstonoem.org/pages/may-2024-wind-event

Those needing transportation to a designated cooling center can contact 3-1-1 to request a free ride.

If you know anyone without electricity or access to cool environments, encourage them to visit a cooling center. Check on your neighbors.

Do you of any senior living complexes or people with mobility disalities who are still without power? Do you live in a neighborhood with food access challenges relating to multi-day power outages? Email leah.wolfthal@houstontx.gov

Solid Waste Management will begin debris removal MONDAY, May 20.

• Households should separate their tree waste and other non-organic waste at the curb without blocking the roadway or storm drains.
• Debris serviced includes:
• Vegetative debris (branches, logs, leaves, plants, etc.)
• Construction and demolition debris (carpet, drywall, furniture, lumber, etc.)
• Large household appliances (fridges, AC units, dishwashers, etc.)
• Electronics (computers, televisions, etc.)
• Normal household trash will not be picked up with debris as part of this program; Friday garbage routes will be serviced beginning May 25. Recycling, yard, and tree waste will be collected on your next regularly scheduled collection day. For more details, please visit bit.ly/3ULPduH 

Residents needing assistance with damage from the recent storms can call the Southeast Texas Severe Storms Home Cleanup hotline at 832-509-2977. They connect residents with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able to assist. All services are free but not guaranteed due to the overwhelming need. This hotline will remain open through Friday, May 31, 2024. Visit, www.crisiscleanup.org for more information.

Many of you have asked how you can help because that is what Houstonians do. There are many volunteer opportunities, but this is the list we have.

• City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods Disaster Recovery Team – roman.aguilar@houstontx.gov
• Crisis Cleanup – crisiscleanup.org/register 
• Houston Responds – houstonresponds.org 
• Texas Congregation Disaster Readiness – txcdr.org/join-txcdr
• Crowdsource Rescue – crowdsourcerescue.com

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