December 15, 2021 -- Following deadly tornados that devastated parts of the Midwest and killed more than 70 people, Mayor Sylvester Turner encourages Houstonians to help storm victims recover by donating supplies that will help people in several communities.
The city of Houston is partnering with Gallery Furniture owner Jim "Mattress Mack' McIngvale and Kroger to collect cleaning supplies, water, nonperishable food, and other items critically needed by those who were in the path of the catastrophic storms.
Municipal employees and city hall visitors may drop items in collection boxes located inside city hall (or assigned departments for employees) during regular business hours starting today.
The public may also drop off items at any Gallery Furniture Store. Mattress Mack has pledged to ship all donated items to Kentucky and other affected areas over the coming days.
"Many families lost everything they had, including their homes, businesses, and loved ones. By coming together and partnering with local businesses, Houstonians can be more effective in our outpouring of support," said Mayor Turner. "I have also spoken with mayors of several cities and asked them to let us know about their specific needs. We will do our very best to stand with them during their greatest time of need."
"Gallery Furniture is proud to partner with the city of Houston and Kroger to help the people of Kentucky recover from these devastating tornados. Our efforts will continue until the area recovers. The people affected are in our thoughts and prayers," said Mattress Mack.
Kroger Houston has sent more than 1,500 cases of water to support the areas devastated by the tornadoes. Kroger is also supporting the relief efforts through product donations to emergency shelters and working with food bank partners as well as Red Cross to help address needs in the Kroger Louisville, Nashville, and Delta divisions that are now working to rebuild.
"Our hearts are with the families and towns devastated by the recent tornadoes, and we want our neighbors to know we are here to help," said Laura Gump, president of Kroger Houston Division. "In Houston, we know all too well the havoc these kinds of weather events can wreak on our communities, and so we are working with our partners, Mayor Turner and Jim McIngvale, to offer our support and help send trailers of bottled water to where it's needed in our sister divisions."
SUGGESTED DONATIONS
nonperishable food supplies, household cleaning supplies, bottled water, new clothing, shovels, generators, empty gas cans, space heaters, gift cards, personal hygiene products, baby products and pet food.