As Hurricane Beryl unleashes its fury upon the Houston area, local businesses and organizations are stepping up to provide refuge for those in need. The Houston Chronicle reports that Houston businessman Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale has transformed his Gallery Furniture store into a safe haven for storm victims seeking shelter from the relentless rain and flooding.
"Gallery Furniture is open as a shelter for people to get in out of this storm. We've got plenty of hot coffee and food and chairs and sofas to sit on. We'll be open all day," McIngvale said in a statement captured by the Chronicle. It must be noted, however, that pets are not allowed inside the makeshift shelter. Meanwhile, additional shelter locations include The Under Over Church in Conroe and the Conroe Salvation Army, which also offers meals to the displaced community.
According to FOX 26 Houston, McIngvale, widely known as Mattress Mack, is known for his philanthropic gestures in times of crisis. The Gallery Furniture store located at 6006 North Freeway in Houston opened its doors on Monday morning, as areas of the city began to experience the impact of the storm's intense rainfall.
Providing further details, the Houston Chronicle emphasizes the community support being offered around the clock; The Conroe Salvation Army's Center of Hope will remain open 24 hours a day through 7 a.m. Wednesday, delivering lunch between 11 a.m. to noon and dinner from 5 to 6 p.m. For up-to-date information on road closures and public safety, residents can check live updates related to Beryl's impact on the region.
