Growing up as an Air Force brat, the simple question Where are you from? always elicits an overly complicated answer: I was born in New Jersey, but my parents are from Ohio and my Dad was in the Air Force, so I lived in New Jersey, California, New Jersey, Texas, South Carolina and back to Texas. (Of course, that doesn’t include everywhere I’ve lived since graduating from college.)

But now that my parents have officially retired in Texas, and my sister, her husband and precious KayleeBug live in Texas too, when asked where I’m from, I can finally say Texas is home. It’s also where I met the love of my life.

All of this to say it’s devastating to see what is happening in Texas right now.

But also spirit-lifting. Texans are known as tough and independent and there are so many people who have taken action and are rescuing neighbors and strangers alike. That is so heart-warming to see.

I admittedly smirk every time a reporter asks someone who has just been rescued or who has just done the rescuing a question. Every answer I’ve seen so far has been so matter of fact and unemotional. Sure, you could chalk it up to shock, but as someone from Texas, that is basically who Texans are. Unflappable. They’re not faking anything.

That said, clearly Texas needs our help, Houston in particular. Here are some immediate ways to help with Hurricane Harvey.

How to Help with Hurricane Harvey:

1. Red Cross: Text HARVEY to 90999 to donate $10. Update: Donate to the Red Cross via Amazon and Amazon will match your donation.

2. Save the Children: Text HURRICANE to 20222 to donate $25.

3. Salvation Army: Text STORM to 51555 to donate.

4. SPCA of Texas: Sign up here to help foster animals affected by the hurricane or make a financial donation.

5. Donate Blood: Click here to find out where to donate blood.

6. Airbnb: Airbnb launched a site here for those looking for a place to stay + for those who are able to offer shelter. Fees are waived for check-ins before Sept 1.

If you have anything to add, please share in the comments.

And to all of you in Texas, know that our thoughts are with you.

A special thanks to all of the police, rescue workers and volunteers selflessly on the front lines. What would we do without you?

Wherever I wander, wherever I roam, Texas will always be my home.

Please share this post so that others can help those in need.