Suzanne Grishman, Executive Director of Mercury One, joined the panel on today’s Think Tank to discuss how Mercury One is saving lives and aiding various organizations throughout southeast Texas to help those affected by Tropical Storm Harvey.

Harvey made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane on Friday before weakening to a tropical storm. Mercury One and its partners began preparations to assist with humanitarian aid as early as last week.

The storm left areas devastated including Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Houston, Louisiana, and the Gulf Coast as it dumped catastrophic amounts of rain while the storm stalled killing at least eight people. Businesses, homes, and freeways have been destroyed, and many are estimating it could be years before the areas affected return to normal.

Mercury One’s partners on the ground include Operation BBQ Relief, Team Rubicon, CitiImpact, Somebody Cares, Gleaning for the World, and The Provisions Project.

Operation BBQ Relief will be feeding first responders and those affected by the storm and need volunteers and donations.

Team Rubicon, an organization made up of veterans, deployed Monday with boats to assist those trapped in flood waters.

CitiImpact will be assisting with food, water, and basic needs and necessities needed by flood victims.  This organization was originally setup in a church by the bayou in Houston. However, due to flooding, they are now moving to a new location to assist with disaster relief.

Somebody Cares and Gleaning for the World are setup on the ground also providing food, water, blankets, hygiene, and supplies in Rockport.

The Provisions Project, who is supporting the Cajun Navy, is also deploying trucks of supplies, food, and water.

The Texas National Guard has been deployed, all airports are closed, hospitals and news stations are flooded, and rescue efforts are currently underway.