The Harris County Sheriff's Office's five substations will be collecting nonperishable goods and supplies Sept. 1-2 to be sent to Louisiana's first responders and families in the wake of Hurricane Laura, the HCSO announced Aug. 31. The substations are located in Spring, Humble, Houston and Tomball.

Donation sites will be open daily 7 a.m.-4 p.m. to get the supplies to Louisiana by the week's end, according to the release. The supply drive is the first phase of the agency's Hurricane Laura relief effort, according to the release.

“When Hurricane Harvey struck our community three years ago, our Louisiana neighbors rushed to our aid and worked at our side as long as we needed them,” Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in the release. “Now, it’s our turn to support our friends. We know that first responders are unable to take time off from work after a disaster to take of their own families, so we’re going to step in and give them all the support we can muster during their time of need.”

Supplies in high demand include the following.
  • COVID-19 supplies: hand sanitizer and face masks
  • Roofing supplies: water-resistant, UV resistant roof tarps; lumber; galvanized nails; deck screws; button cap nails
  • Electrical supplies: portable generators, empty glass containers, generator oil, outdoor extension cords
  • Food: nonperishable items, water or beverages, baby food and formula
  • Household supplies: personal hygiene items; diapers and baby wipes; cleaning supplies; heavy-duty contractor bags; duct tape; paper goods; plastic cups and utensils; first-aid kits; antibacterial ointment; bandages and band-aids; mosquito spray; 3 foot x 3 foot cardboard boxes or plastic tubs with lids
The sheriff's office asks residents to not send clothing, perishable food items or furniture.