Summit held to discuss needs of Houston's most vulnerable during disaster

HOUSTON – Whether it's creating a kit or learning the evacuation routes, you and your family may have a plan this hurricane season. But what about seniors and the disabled? On Tuesday, dozens gathered to discuss the needs of Houston's most vulnerable during a disaster.

The Annual Houston Healthcare Hurricane & Emergency Preparedness Summit kicked off Tuesday at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Emergency planners, response agencies and non-hospital health care providers like dialysis centers, nursing homes and home heath agencies were there to talk about ways to prepare.

Mayor Annise Parker was also in attendance.

"We have more than 500 facilitates across the area that target vulnerable seniors or the disabled. In the event of a disaster the management of those facilities is responsible for the safety of those residents. We want to make sure they know what to do," said the mayor.

The purpose of the event was to make sure health care providers have everything they need before a disaster strikes.

People who care for the most vulnerable citizens in our area need to register their family member or the person in need of evacuation assistance with the Texas United Way Helpline by contacting 2-1-1. By registering with Texas United Way evacuation transportation will be provided.  The special transportation registry is open year-round for registration.