Red Cross to launch new Harvey assistance site on Sept. 21

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The Red Cross will launch a new website where those impacted by Hurricane Harvey can apply for $400 cash grants on Sept. 21

Unlike the current website that has buckled under the pressure of high traffic, the new website is expected to handle the applications without incident.

Registration will remain open until Oct. 10. Those living in the state's 39-county disaster declaration area (which includes the Houston area) are eligible to apply.

Residents impacted by Harvey continue to line up at Walmarts to get emergency relief funds but many are left feeling frustrated.

The Red Cross released the following statement about the situation:

"As we continue to provide food, shelter and comfort for those affected by Hurricane Harvey, the American Red Cross is delivering financial assistance into the hands of people who need it most. On the first day of this effort on September 11, we provided $45 million in financial assistance to more than 100,000 qualified households who needed immediate help.

"However, this unprecedented demand challenged our IT infrastructure and caused us to temporarily suspend service. We understand this has been frustrating for the many families still in need of assistance and we are working around the clock to implement reliable solutions to accommodate demand.

"Despite this setback, the Red Cross is fully committed to providing financial support to help meet the needs of those most impacted by Hurricane Harvey."

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