Brian Kendall
The recent winter storms have left thousands of Texans without power, some without internet and water, and for those without shelter, other life-threatening problems as temperatures remain below freezing.
But if there's anything we know about Fort Worth, it's that it doesn't take long for someone to step up and ask how to help.
Below is a short list of practical ways Fort Worthians can help their neighbors. Of course, if you need to leave the house, please bundle up and travel with caution.
We will add more to this list as additional information becomes available.
Donate to help SafeHaven repair one of its shelters.
The winter storms brought damage to a children's program area at one of the shelters operated by SafeHaven of Tarrant County, which helps survivors of domestic violence. To donate, click here.
Volunteer or donate to The Rail Club Live.
The Rail Club Live (3101 Joyce Drive) is currently serving as 24/7 warming center and hosting several homeless and other individuals who have no place to stay. Per its Facebook page, the venue is looking for volunteers as well as donations of food, bottled water, blankets, or warm clothes.
Donate supplies to Presbyterian Night Shelter.
Presbyterian Night Shelter is in need of wet wipes, cleansing body cloths, hygiene kits, towels, LED lanterns, and small flashlights with batteries. If you would like to donate, reach out to the shelter via Facebook Messenger or email [email protected].
Donate firewood.
Fort Worth-based moving and logistics company Gozova is currently taking firewood donations. No need to leave the house, either — Gozova will come to you and distribute the firewood accordingly.
If you or someone you know needs firewood (preferably families in Fort Worth or Dallas who've gone without power and are unable to leave to pick up supplies themselves), fill out this form, and Gozova will coordinate delivery.
Donate cold weather items for the homeless.
The Tarrant County Homeless Coalition is in need of the following items: pillows, blankets, over-the-counter cold and flu medicines, pillowcases, underwear (all sizes), coats, scarves, gloves, hats, heavy and warm socks, twin sheets for emergency mattresses, generators, heaters, sleeping bags, and bottled water. Email [email protected] for information on how to donate.
Drop off bottled water at a fire station.
To help those without water, the Fort Worth Fire Department is accepting bottled water donations at all 43 of its stations. See the full list of station locations here.
Donate to the Funky Town Fridge.
The Funky Town Fridge is a citizen-run initiative that has three fridges set up in the Southside, Poly, and Como neighborhoods, filled with food and supplies for the homeless and anyone else in need. While the fridge is accepting milk, produce, and other groceries, it also has a wish list of winter items that you can also donate.
Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly.
With volunteers and staff being asked to stay home during this time, Meals on Wheels Inc. of Tarrant County has delivered emergency shelf-stable meals to those it services. However, the organization is also asking locals to simply check on their neighbors for any additional needs.
If you or someone you know are in need...
For additional information and resources, United Way of Tarrant County encourages locals to call 2-1-1 or visit 211texas.org.
