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George Masi, COO, (L-R) Dr. Ken Mattox and James Hearn discuss
preparations for the clinic. |
The
Hospital District began a major role in the care of evacuees from the
devastated areas affected by Hurricane Katrina.
In collaboration with
city, county and state officials, HCHD will provide exclusive medical care
to the 23,000 evacuees housed in the Reliant Astrodome.
People from New
Orleans’ Superdome have been arriving at the Astrodome since Aug. 31. The
monumental transport has used about 500 buses.
“This is a terrible
tragedy for our neighbors along the central Gulf Coast—many of whom have
sought shelter in our community,” said David S. Lopez, President and CEO.
“We are absolutely committed to working with our other local healthcare
partners in being of service to our community’s guests.”
The Hospital District
has created the Astrodome Health Clinic, staffed entirely by HCHD and
physicians from Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Texas
Health Science Center-Houston, to provide medical care to the evacuees
during their stay in Houston.
While the clinic
requires a significant commitment from HCHD, Lopez assures the community
that there will be no disruption or reduction of services provided to Harris
County residents.
Those who
wish to provide assistance can make donations online at
www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-HELP-NOW. Your donations will
enable American Red Cross volunteers to provide critical necessities to
thousands of victims left homeless.
By making a financial
gift to Hurricane 2005 Relief, the Red Cross can provide shelter, food,
counseling and other assistance to those in need. The Houston Chapter is
committed to meeting the humanitarian needs of the people in our area. If
you are currently hosting victims of the hurricane, we encourage you to call
the local office of the Red Cross at 713-526-8300 for assistance.
