When Hurricane Beryl passed through, it left many parts of Houston in dire straits, with power outages lasting over a week in some areas. Among the most affected were several apartment complexes housing elderly and low-income residents. In these challenging times, the International Management District stepped up to provide critical support and demonstrate the power of community.

Immediate Response: Hot Meals and Water Delivery

On Sunday, July 14, three board members of the International Management District—Owen C. Wang, Dr. Nancy Mai, and Chairman Wea Lee—took decisive action to support those in need. Early that morning, they picked up 700 hot lunch plates from Crown Seafood. Their mission for the day was clear: deliver these meals, along with much-needed water, to seven locations across the district, including apartment complexes that had been without power for nearly a week.

The delivery locations were carefully chosen to ensure that the most vulnerable populations—particularly the elderly and low-income residents—received the assistance they desperately needed. The board members personally dedicated their afternoon to this task, embodying the spirit of service and community solidarity.

A Message of Unity and Preparedness

Chairman Wea Lee emphasized the importance of community support during such unexpected disasters. He conveyed a strong message in his speech, stating that disasters like these are unforeseen in their district and that, as an international family across Houston, everyone must come together to provide for one another. His words resonated deeply, highlighting the district’s commitment to unity and mutual aid.

Owen C. Wang, another board member, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is our job, to take care of our community. We are a family, we work together.” His words underscored the philosophy driving the International Management District’s actions—viewing the district not just as a collection of neighborhoods, but as an extended family where everyone looks out for each other.

Lessons Learned and Future Mobilization

The response to Hurricane Beryl provided valuable insights into how the International Management District can better prepare for future emergencies. The experience underscored the need for efficient mobilization and coordination to address the needs of the community swiftly and effectively.

Chairman Lee emphasized that this event offered a new perspective on disaster preparedness and response. He highlighted how the hurricane gave them perspective on how management districts should mobilize in the future. The board’s hands-on approach and swift action set a precedent for future efforts, demonstrating the critical role of community leaders in disaster response.

A True Testament to Community Spirit

The actions of the International Management District during the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl stand as a testament to the power of community spirit and solidarity. By providing hot meals and water to those most in need, the district not only addressed immediate needs but also reinforced the bonds of unity and support within the community.

As the district continues to learn and grow from this experience, the commitment to serving and protecting its residents remains steadfast. The International Management District’s response to Hurricane Beryl serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when a community comes together to support one another in times of crisis.