Texas declares state of emergency (opens in new tab).

In a storm raging across the U.S., 21 people died nationwide (opens in new tab), millions of Texans lost power, zoo animals froze to death (opens in new tab), and the mayor of Colorado City resigned, telling terrified residents that "only the strong will survive." (opens in new tab).

Texas had a uniquely difficult time weathering this storm. Extreme cold temperatures, severe power grid problems (opens in new tab), and power outages have left millions of Texans without power or heat (opens in new tab) for days. In response, President Biden ordered federal assistance (open in new tab) and authorized the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to coordinate relief efforts.

People are suffering. There are ways to help, even if you are far from the Lone Star State.

The nonprofit Front Steps (open in new tab) is collecting warm blankets at 500 E. Seventh St (open in new tab) in downtown Austin. Blankets can be ordered online and shipped locally.

The best blankets are large enough to cover an adult and made of fleece or acrylic (not cotton or wool); check the Front Steps site (opens in new tab) for specific recommendations.

For other supply donation options:

One of the most effective ways to help others is to put your money where your mouth is.

Feeding Texas (opens in new tab) is a non-profit organization that works to feed millions of people outside of disasters, but is especially focused on connecting donors with food banks in need now. Click here to donate. (opens in new tab)

Other places to donate $:

In San Antonio, the South Alamo Community Alliance for the Homeless (opens in new tab) is in greatest need of volunteers for the night shift. They are also in need of hot meals. If you live in the San Antonio area and are willing and able to contribute, read more about what they need here (opens in new tab):

There are several options for volunteering:

In fact, Texas and other If you live in an affected area, please consider reducing your power use if you can do so safely.

Many people are experiencing rotating power outages, and according to utilities and power companies, cumulative reductions in energy use may help keep the grid functioning (open in new tab). Keeping the thermostat below 68 degrees and cutting back on laundry can make a difference.

Also, drivers are urged to stay home as road crews work to clear ice and snow (opens in new tab).

For more information on how to help and what to do if you yourself are affected by the storm, the Texas Tribune (opens in new tab) and the Austin American-Statesman (opens in new tab) have compiled additional resources for Texans in need ( open in new tab) have compiled a list of.