As freezing temperatures are expected across the Houston area in the coming days, local nonprofits and community groups are mobilizing to protect people experiencing homelessness, urging residents to donate critical winter supplies as soon as possible.
STAR OF HOPE
Star of Hope, Houston’s oldest mission serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, says it is preparing for a significant increase in people seeking shelter, warmth, and meals as temperatures drop.
Star of Hope is requesting donations of winter and street survival items, including:
- Bottled water
- Coats
- Warm socks
- Blankets
- Hats, gloves, and scarves
Donation drop-off locations
- Star of Hope Distribution Center: 2320 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77003
- Star of Hope Women and Family Development Center: 2575 Reed Rd, Houston, TX 77051
Star of Hope says financial donations are especially helpful, allowing staff to purchase high-priority items and respond quickly to changing needs. Donations can be made online through the organization’s website.
TOGETHER 4 TEXAS
Together 4 Texas is launching a rapid-response emergency donation and distribution effort aimed at getting supplies directly into the hands of people living on the streets during the multi-day freeze.
Organizers say this is not a storage drive but an immediate deployment effort, following the same model used during Hurricane Harvey and recent flood responses.
All items must be new or gently used and ready for immediate distribution:
- Blankets
- Jackets and coats
- Socks
- Gloves and scarves
- Thermal wear
- Sleeping bags
- Hand warmers
Drop-off locations (open through Thursday at 7:30 p.m.)
- Bayland Park: 6400 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77074
- Social Good in Action: 390 Glenboro Dr, Suite 180, Houston, TX 77015
- VFW Post 9296: 1214 Maxey Rd, Houston, TX 77015
- Northwest Educational Center: 1316 Northwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77092
No registration is required to drop off donations.
Together 4 Texas will also host a public mobilization at Houston City Hall on Thursday at 8:30 p.m. Participants are asked to arrive with supplies and be prepared to assist with immediate distribution along known homeless outreach routes.
VANN’S POSSE
Other local groups, including Vann’s Posse, are also preparing clothing, food, and supplies for people experiencing homelessness as the freeze approaches.
Organizers across Houston emphasize that even small donations can make a life-saving difference during extreme cold.
You can join the group and read more about its outreach here.