Journalists Among First Responders for Harvey

Last year, I wrote an article comparing the motto of the U.S. Postal Service to the steadfastness of journalism, and we saw that grit this week in Houston. As Hurricane Harvey raged, reporters stood strong in flood waters, rescued families and covered this horrific disaster.

I would like to commend the journalists at The Chronicle this week. The nonstop coverage, during which time their own lives were being uprooted, was thorough and groundbreaking. This coverage provided an invaluable service to the community, with storm updates, photos and up-to-date information on where residents could find aid. Locals could watch the radar, learn about mandatory evacuations and receive updates on road closures, school schedules and power outages.

This type of journalism is what real news is all about. It is a public service – and a vital one at that. Journalists stood beside first responders and never waivered in their coverage of this storm.
Please take a moment to look at some of the amazing work that the Chronicle staff has done so far.

This gallery about the aftermath is especially heartbreaking.

Bridget Balch shares where Red Cross shelters can be found.

This drone footage, submitted by a local college student, shows the historic flooding.

Read up on the Cajun Navy, a band of Louisiana residents who use their boats to help victims of flooding, dating back to Hurricane Katrina.

And perhaps most importantly, take a minute to read this useful article by William Axford on how to help, detailing ways you can send aid during this terrible time.