On behalf of our clients and the dedicated staff who care for them, we would like to thank our friends and donors for your outpouring of support and concern in the wake of Harvey’s destruction. Our resident clients and host families benefit greatly from the support of their local communities, and we all felt the immense impact of this storm on our own lives and on those of our neighbors. We do estimate a total of $15-$20,000 in repair costs for minor damages sustained by several of our 19 group homes. We also continue to learn of the losses suffered by so many of our 350 case management families, across seven area counties.
Most fortunately, our resident homes were not flooded, and thanks to the precautionary measures taken by our staff and their tireless commitment during the event, our residents remained safe and sound throughout the storm. Several of these same employees, however, clocked overtime hours at our group homes as their families faced life-or-death situations. Certain staff members and their families suffered major losses: homes and cars were flooded, and some families were obliged to evacuate to area shelters. While these staff members take needed time to repair damages and recover alongside their loved ones, the temporary reduction in staff is resulting in additional overtime costs that are not covered by fees for service. Vita-Living needs the support of our generous donors more than ever, in order to continue providing the highest standard of care in the wake of this citywide disaster.
Other extra-budgetary expenses include the cost of additional food for our 72 residents and direct care staff who remained in the homes throughout. Since our usual catering service was waylaid by the storm, we have been obliged to buy meals at retail costs. Meanwhile, we continue to experience delays in cash flow due to the interruption of activity at Houston-area banks and most other businesses.
We at Vita-Living recognize the immediate need for charitable funds across our city, in support of lifesaving and restorative services and support. Philanthropic focus on the most urgent needs is key, as our communities struggle to heal and rebuild. Against this backdrop, we are more grateful than ever for the support of our longtime donors, volunteers, and community partners. You are the pillars of our agency and a major factor in our sustainability over the long term. As our communities work together for the sake of Houston’s future, Vita-Living remains committed to doing its part for the sake of those most vulnerable.
