The winter storm that affected just about everyone in Texas has been very challenging for many families and individuals with autism, and the situation continues as millions face water issues and food shortages. If you are a family or caregiver of a loved one with autism, or an autistic adult seeking assistance, please contact the organizations below for disaster-related support.
As always, the Autism Society of Texas is available to assist with autism-related help, guidance, and resources at support@texasautismsociety.org or 512-479-4199, Ext. 6.
Winter Storm Disaster Assistance & Resources
The Partnership’s Disaster Hotline provides information, referrals, guidance, technical assistance and resources to people with disabilities, their families, allies, organizations assisting disaster impacted individuals with disabilities and others seeking assistance with immediate and urgent disaster-related needs.
The Disaster Hotline is always available for intake calls, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year at (800) 626-4959 and info@disasterstrategies.org. They will have their knowledgeable team respond to your call as soon as possible, often immediately, and we intend to respond to all callers within 24 hours. https://disasterstrategies.org/hotline/
CDC illustrated story about disasters and how to cope can be found here.
Disability Rights Texas: Texas Winter Storm Recovery Resources
Resources for food, damage assessment, how to avoid scams and more here.
Texas 211
Contact 211 for information about resources in your area for food or shelter. In case of emergency, call 9-1-1.
FEMA
FEMA has water and needed supplies being distributed around Texas, and may be able to provide financial assistance for storm-related issues/property damage.
READY.GOV
AAC Disaster Relief
The AAC Disaster Relief Committee (subcommittee organized by the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication) works to help anyone who has lost their communication system due to natural disasters. The systems are being replaced free of charge to families through financial support. Please visit their website for more information, or to volunteer for the organization:
https://aacdisasterrelief.recovers.org/
Click below to find the closest Warming Center in Texas or call 211
https://tdem.texas.gov/warming-center/
Find open shelters through the Red Cross:
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html
Check with local news stations for information about water distribution and other local resources as many are keeping comprehensive lists.
Austin
Dallas/Ft. Worth
Houston
https://abc13.com/place/houston/
Rio Grande Valley
San Antonio