BakerRipley Jumps into Action in Aftermath of Hurricane

A day after Hurricane Beryl’s landfall, BakerRipley, in collaboration with the American Red Cross, opened emergency shelters at two of its community centers: the BakerRipley Ripley House Campus and the BakerRipley Gulfton-Sharpstown Campus. These shelters, equipped with a total of 150 beds, provided a safe haven for those impacted by the hurricane. Open for over a week, these shelters have given hundreds of individuals a place to rest, recharge, and access essential services.

BakerRipley’s approach goes beyond immediate disaster relief, focusing on engaging with parents and the community to foster a supportive network. Our wrap-around support services ensure that families have access to resources that help them rebuild and recover in the long term. This holistic approach includes our Community Centers, which have also been open to the public as cooling centers, offering a reprieve from the sweltering post-hurricane heat.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the Houston Texans hosted a food fair at the BakerRipley East Aldine Community Center on July 17. This event, supported by the Houston Food Bank and HP Inc., provided essential resources to hundreds of our neighbors. Special thanks to Houston Texans player Moran Norris and Texans Legend Anthony Hill for their unwavering support and participation. The Texans have truly gone above and beyond, proving they are more than just a sports team – they are champions of our community.

In partnership with the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, our Workforce Solutions offices are actively raising awareness about Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and assisting people in applying for these crucial benefits. DUA provides temporary financial assistance to individuals whose employment or self-employment has been lost or interrupted due to a major disaster.

Recognizing that applying for benefits can be a confusing and stressful experience, especially in the aftermath of a disaster, our dedicated workforce employees are here to guide applicants through every step of the process. They offer personalized support, ensuring that all necessary information is correctly submitted and helping applicants understand their eligibility and the documentation required. This hands-on assistance is designed to alleviate some of the stress and confusion, providing a clear path to obtaining the financial support needed during this critical time.

Our Senior Health and Wellness program ensured that seniors received a five-day supply of shelf-stable meals, preparing them for weather incidents. We also checked on all veterans receiving services to ensure their safety and well-being during the hurricane and its aftermath.

BakerRipley’s Neighborhood Tax Centers ramped up virtual tax preparation and phone support to assist those affected by the hurricane. Our utility assistance program quickly processed disconnect notices caused by the extreme weather, helping families maintain essential services during a critical time.

The heart of BakerRipley’s response lies in our dedicated volunteers. Over 50 BakerRipley volunteers answered the call to support local leaders and partner organizations, participating in multiple food distributions across the area. Their efforts have been instrumental in providing immediate relief to those in need, showcasing the power of community solidarity.

BakerRipley’s response to Hurricane Beryl is a continuation of its long-standing tradition of aiding the community in times of need. Our history of emergency response includes significant efforts during the 2023 Pasadena area tornado and Hurricane Harvey in 2017. This ongoing commitment underscores our dedication to ensuring the well-being of our neighbors, especially in challenging times. From immediate shelter and essential services to long-term recovery and community engagement, we are here to stand by our neighbors through every challenge.

To help make a difference with BakerRipley, donate today. Together with our partners and volunteers, we are dedicated to helping our community recover and thrive.