On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Houstonians turned out in force at the George R. Brown Convention Center for the Disaster Readiness and Resilience Clinic & Expo, the city’s largest preparedness event ahead of hurricane season. Presented by CenterPoint Energy, this dynamic and timely initiative gathered thousands of residents, local agencies, non-profits, and emergency response teams with one unified mission: to strengthen the region’s disaster readiness and community resilience.

Held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Hall A of the iconic downtown venue, the event was a powerful collaboration between the City of Houston, Harris County, and dozens of community-based organizations. Together, they transformed the convention floor into a hub of knowledge-sharing and life-saving resources.

Empowering the Public with Preparedness Tools

Participants had the opportunity to engage with interactive exhibits, attend informative panels, and connect directly with experts from FEMA, Houston Emergency Management, and other leading organizations. Topics ranged from hurricane survival kits and evacuation planning to flood insurance and mental health support during disasters.

“This Expo wasn’t just about handing out pamphlets—it was about making sure every Houstonian walks away with real tools and a plan,” said one city official. “We’re not just preparing for storms; we’re building resilience.”

Supporting Vulnerable Communities with the DAFN Clinic

A standout feature of the Expo was the Disaster Access and Functional Needs (DAFN) Clinic, which catered specifically to individuals with disabilities and those with additional needs during emergencies. Health professionals and disability advocates were on hand to provide personalized guidance, emergency registries, and resources to ensure that no one is left behind in a crisis.

Media and Community Engagement

Local media outlets were present to cover the event, offering interviews with organizers, city leaders, and Houston residents. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the accessible, informative, and community-centered nature of the clinic, especially as the Gulf Coast faces increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

A Free and Vital Public Service

The Expo was free and open to all, reinforcing Houston’s commitment to public safety, equitable outreach, and disaster awareness. With hurricane season looming, the event served as a vital reminder of the power of preparation—and the strength of a city that comes together before a storm strikes.

As climate change continues to increase the frequency and severity of natural disasters, initiatives like the Disaster Readiness and Resilience Expo are more important than ever. Houston Style Magazine applauds the collective effort of city and county officials, emergency partners, and volunteers who made this event possible—and encourages all residents to take action now, before the next storm appears on the radar.

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