Special-needs evacuees get unique care in Texas

Special-needs evacuees get unique care in Texas

SAN ANTONIO — Amid the evacuee crisis created by Hurricane Katrina, Baptist Child & Family Services (BCFS) in San Antonio has taken on a special responsibility.

“At the request of Texas Gov. Rick Perry, BCFS organized and has staffed the only special-needs shelters in the state,” Kevin Dinnin, BCFS president, said Sept. 8.

The special-needs population includes children and adults with some physical and/or mental disability or issues — excluding severe cases who need hospitalization and those who would be a danger to themselves or others, Dinnin said.

“We now are caring for approximately 400 people with a wide range of challenges at our six locations, and all [are] traumatized by everything they have gone through,” he said.