Red Cross clears confusion about living conditions at new shelter

HOUSTON – With nearly 530 people displaced by Hurricane Harvey now at this Red Cross shelter location just south of NRG Stadium, organizers say things are running smoothly.

This, despite a few emails we got from people expressing concerns about the conditions.

Fred Mariscal, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross, said, "Finally families are starting to feel more comfortable and settling in. Running a shelter is like running a small city, but everything is fine now and everything is working."

One issue expressed by some was the lack of air conditioning.

Shelter officials say part of the problem had to do with the first day of opening and warehouse cargo doors staying open to bring in cots and other supplies.

"That was because moving day, we had to keep the gates behind you open," said Mariscal.

Shelter organizers say those gates are now closed and things have cooled down.

As for other basic necessities provided here, the shelter operators say they're staying on top of things.

Mariscal explained, "The port-o-potties are working and changed twice a day, in the morning and evening. The showers are also working as well. They're cleaned and changed every two hours."

As for the food, the Red Cross says it's providing folks at the shelter with three meals a day and snacks in between.

While it's far from what they had before Harvey hit, for many here it's the helping hand they desperately need.

"Our goal right now is to make sure the people in the shelter are safe, have a place to relax, so that they can figure out a way to go on with their lives," said Mariscal.

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Galveston-born, award-winning journalist, dog owner, foodie & occasional golfer.

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