More Volunteers Needed

[editor]

DATE: 9/5/2005

JUDGE ROBERT ECKELS AND MAYOR BILL WHITE ENCOURAGE ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEERISM AND APPLAUDE THE VOLUNTEER SPIRIT OF THE COMMUNITY

To: Houston Regional Media Outlets

R E L I A N T C E N T E R

J I C

Joint Information Center

Hurricane Katrina Houston Response

Monday, September 5, 2005 5:00 PM

Media Advisory

JUDGE ROBERT ECKELS AND MAYOR BILL WHITE ENCOURAGE ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEERISM AND APPLAUDE THE VOLUNTEER SPIRIT OF THE COMMUNITY

(HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS) - Harris County Judge Robert Eckels and Houston Mayor Bill White are asking citizens to further reach-out to the evacuees by volunteering at Reliant Park. One thousand more volunteers are needed to share in Houston's spirit and big-hearted efforts. Volunteers are asked to come directly to Reliant Park now and to stay throughout the night. Volunteers are asked to follow signage and enter the facility at McNee and Kirby where they will directed to the Volunteer Check-in.

Over 25,000 volunteers thus far have volunteered in the relief campaign for the 22,400 Hurricane Katrina evacuees currently finding shelter at Reliant Park. Reliant Park has become the largest evacuation shelter in U.S. history and has been able to continue its efforts largely because of the level of volunteerism and support by those citizens. The response from the citizens of Houston and Harris County has been remarkable. However, this is an ongoing effort and volunteers are still needed and are encouraged to continue volunteering at the Reliant Park facilities.

"Once again Harris County residents have risen to the challenge of helping their fellow neighbor," said Judge Robert Eckels. "The mayor and I are so proud of our community in their continuous support through not only their donations, but in their volunteerism as well."