We are overwhelmed with the generosity and kindness of our clients who want to help in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. We were fortunate that our clinic and surrounding areas received no damage, and our team members have been accounted for with only a few flooded cars. However we know that the majority of the city was not as fortunate, and that reality has been heartbreaking. Houston has shown that out of disaster comes compassion and unity, and Team GOVC will continue to do everything we can to support our community. Here’s what you need to know to join us in helping those in need:
It’s Not Over Yet
The disaster of Harvey has brought an unprecedented situation, and this is the FIRST time that veterinary needs are being coordinated in response to such widespread devastation. Our very own Dr. Chmaitelli has been working on the ground at the George R Brown Convention Center to coordinate logistics and manage veterinary operations in a way that creates a model for future disaster relief efforts across the country. He has campaigned tirelessly with our vendors to secure donations of over $40,000 worth of vaccines, medications and supplies from MWI Veterinary Supply and Patterson Veterinary Supply. He has also coordinated with 8th Wonder Brewery to graciously provide much needed storage space. Dr. Chmaitelli has worked alongside Dr. Katie Eick from South by South Vets, who has spent hours organizing veterinary and technician shifts and donated medications and supplies to get efforts off the ground before any donations even came in. Salise Shuttlesworth and her team from Friends For Life as well as numerous BARC employees and volunteers have done an incredible job at the GRB working to provide the labor to keep operations going.
Here’s What We Need
Our work is only just beginning. We are anticipating at least 1-2 weeks of an active shelter at the convention center. Then our local rescues and shelters will take the load, unfortunately. While physical supply donations are appreciated, the most crucial needs right now are:
- Volunteers: Once operations move out of GRB, Friends for Life and other rescue organizations will need as many volunteers as possible over the next several months to help place animals. Fill out a volunteer application with Friends for Life here.
- Fosters: Local rescues and shelters WILL need fosters, even temporarily, to help provide homes for the numerous pets displaced from the storm. If you can help foster during this crucial time, please view the urgent foster needs and fill out an application to foster here.
- Funds: This is a fluid situation, and the shelter needs one day are completely different from the next. Even a $5 donation can make a great difference in purchasing necessary medical supplies and cleaning supplies. Make a donation to the Friends for Life Hurricane Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund here.
Thank you for joining us and inspiring such an incredible response in the face of adversity! Together we WILL continue to support each other, help the people and pets in need, and persevere even stronger.
