On September 14, the American Red Cross South Texas Chapter partnered with Su Clinica Familiar to convene representatives from 15 organizations serving communities throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The gathering focused on strengthening community preparedness by equipping trusted service providers with information and resources they can share with the individuals and families they serve every day.

Participating organizations included Fox Hollow, Family Home Health, Gentiva Hospice, NELO Insurance Advisors, ATEX Home Health & Hospice, Safe Haven Hospice, Mesquite Home Health & Hospice, Texas Nurse Care, Skin FX, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Rio Grande Home Health, Early Childhood Intervention, United Home Care, the Area Agency on Aging, and Su Clinica Familiar.

Many of these organizations work directly with older adults, caregivers, families, young children, and individuals with health-related needs. By bringing together such a diverse network of community partners, the event helped extend preparedness education well beyond those attending the training.

Through presentations on the Red Cross Be Red Cross Ready program and preparedness for caregivers, participants learned practical steps to prepare for emergencies. Topics included building emergency supply kits, creating family and caregiver emergency plans, identifying evacuation routes, and understanding how to connect with Red Cross services during disasters. Attendees also received preparedness materials and information about the Red Cross Emergency App to share with their clients and communities.

The event’s greatest impact lies in its multiplier effect. Participants can now incorporate preparedness conversations into their everyday interactions with the people they serve, helping ensure more residents have the knowledge and resources needed before an emergency occurs. One training session has the potential to reach hundreds of individuals and families throughout the region.

Su Clinica Familiar played a key role in bringing these organizations together. As a trusted healthcare provider offering affordable and sliding-scale services across the Rio Grande Valley, Su Clinica maintains strong relationships with both residents and community partners. Its involvement strengthens collaboration among local organizations and helps build a broader network dedicated to improving health, safety, and resilience throughout the region.

This partnership reflects the Red Cross commitment to helping communities prepare before disasters strike. By working alongside trusted local organizations, the South Texas Chapter is expanding access to lifesaving preparedness information, strengthening community connections, and helping build a more resilient Rio Grande Valley.