When Hurricane Isaac slams the gulf states, groups right here in Central Texas are ready to help the victims.
From the American Red Cross to the SPCA of Texas, organizations are now in high alert.
For American Red Cross staff like Juli Ivie, it's been a busy day.
"We are calling down our volunteers in preparation for the storm Isaac that's coming in," said Disaster Service Specialist Juli Ivie.
It was about seven years ago to the date, that the Red Cross handled a devastating disaster that started off just like this one, Hurricane Katrina.
But, Red Cross Regional Director Sara Kennedy, said the organization's been preparing for Isaac all year long.
"We want to be ready and able to provide safe shelter, food, and comfort to people as their immediately impacted," said Kennedy.
The primary shelter hubs are in North Texas and Austin, but depending on the outcome of this hurricane, that could expand to any city in the area.
If need be the American Red Cross in Waco has three trailers that will help set up a shelter for 150 evacuees.
It's not only people who may need help.
The SPCA of Texas has already brought in almost 300 homeless animals from Mississippi and Louisiana.
"There are some communities that are able to provide locations that maybe able to hold animals," said Ivie
But for now these organizations are hoping for the best.
"Our volunteers are very caring and compassionate people," said Ivie.
Willing to help at any given moment is what they're ready to do.
