Joint effort aids Huston hurricane relief

As the power and water outage in Huston, TX continues due to Hurricane Ike, essential necessities were provided through a collaboration of city officials and the local entertainment industry Friday and Saturday at Sunnyside Multi-Service Center at 4605 Wilmington Street.

“With over a million still without power, the only beef in Houston is in the MREs,” said Nancy Byron, music publicist in a press release.

Radio station staff such as 97.9 The Box, 93.3 KPTY, Majic 102.1, and Praise 92.1 relayed the message as to where relief items and assistance could be found and helped with distribution. The Federal Emergency Management Agency along with city officials, local music industry representatives and local sports industry representatives created points of distribution. Water, ice, and military meals ready to eat, food, batteries, baby formula, diapers, toiletries and gas cards were distributed.

The Amobi Okoye Foundation also assisted with the effort. The foundation is dedicated to instilling the value of hard work, determination and a good character in young African Americans.

Rappers such as Chamillionaire and Trae Tha Truth and his ABN Gang worked with city officials in the hot sun. Other musicians and entities that volunteered their time include the Houston Rockets Ron Artest, Rafer Alston, the Monica Lamb Foundation, and Kroger supermarket chain.