Hurricane season is here, bringing with it the familiar rhythm Harris County residents know all too well: tracking forecasts, stocking pantries, and charging devices. But for Commissioner Lesley Briones, helping residents weather hurricane season is a year-round commitment, starting with Precinct 4’s community centers.
When disaster strikes, Harris County, Commissioner Briones mobilizes her team of nearly 500 dedicated public servants to help keep thousands of residents across Precinct 4 safe, cool, and stocked with any supplies they may need. As a tropical storm potentially moves into the area, here’s how Precinct 4 is preparing to keep you and your family safe.
Transforming Community Centers into Relief Hubs
Precinct 4’s community centers quickly transform from neighborhood gathering places into cooling centers, overnight emergency shelters, and distribution sites.
Behind every shelter is a dedicated team of community center staff working alongside Precinct 4 social workers. Together, they provide a safe place for residents to stay while connecting them with transportation, recovery assistance, housing support, and other critical services that extend beyond the shelter walls.
“Our social services team helps residents navigate challenges that don’t disappear after the storm ends,” says Kathryn Garcia, a Precinct 4 social worker. “Whether someone needs transportation, assistance with housing, or help connecting with outside organizations, we are there to help them take that next step.”
The centers welcome everyone, including seniors, families with children, pets, and residents from outside Precinct 4. Staff members create designated play areas so children can experience a sense of normalcy during uncertain times, while trusted partners help meet essential needs.
The American Red Cross provides cots, blankets, meals, and on-site nursing support. Harris County Pets provides crates, leashes, bowls, food, relief pads, and other necessities so pets can remain with their families. Throughout the emergency, local law enforcement officers help ensure every shelter remains safe and secure.
Disaster Response in Action
The work doesn’t end when the rain stops. Following severe weather events, community centers serve as distribution sites and cooling centers.
After Hurricane Beryl and the 2024 derecho, Commissioner Briones distributed food, water, ice, and more to over 25,000 households and opened community centers to thousands of residents trying to stay cool during mass power outages.
By working alongside local partners, such as the Houston Food Bank, community centers remain a source of support for residents long after the storm has passed.
Get Prepared Before the Next Storm
Hurricane season is unpredictable, but preparation doesn’t have to be. Stay up to date with Precinct 4’s resources by following @hcprecinct4 on social media, signing up for Ready Harris emergency alerts, and enrolling in the STEAR program if you or a loved one needs additional assistance during an emergency.