HOUSTON – Now that we’re in hurricane season, a lot of disaster preparations are in place to host people who may have to evacuate in case of a storm to shelters. One of the biggest shelters in our city is NRG Park.
The plans are worked on all year, adjusted and improved after each storm. The park partners with several organizations like medical clinics, cell phone services, food, and clothing to bring those services to NRG Park to help Houstonians ride out the storm and recover in a time of need.
NRG Park is a place where many people come for major events, including sports, concerts, the Rodeo, and so much more.
From June 1, the start of hurricane season, and the months that follow, the facilities are essentially on standby for emergency support.
A full transformation occurs to serve first responders, volunteers, and those in need in Harris County fleeing a threatening hurricane.
The Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation CEO, Marty Kendrick, and her team are responsible for overseeing Houston’s iconic 350-acre sports and entertainment complex,
“It’s important for people to know that NRG Park isn’t just a place where the Texans play or Rodeo performs. We have over 500 events, concerts, and special events each year. It’s also where the community can be protected and provided for when they’re faced with a major event,” said Kendrick.
Each exhibit hall is set up as a different unit. There is a family unit to keep children with their parents. There is a single men and single women unit. A play area to keep children busy and store for guests to get donated clothing.
“We have a dining hall set-up, beds spread out and an area for people to charge their cell phones, replace their identification if it’s lost and even receive medical services,” said Lea Mastaglio, Assistant General Manager at NRG Park.
Some families may not need to stay at the shelter, but they’re welcome to use the resources, “If we have families in need of food or water, to cool off or receive some help, they can always come here and go back home if they wish. All they have to do is go through our drive-thru service that will be set up in the parking lot of the park,” said Kendrick.
