With the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaching, state leaders have now designated El Paso a statewide shelter for future disasters.

Because of the excellent work El Paso did housing and helping Katrina victims, the governor said the city will be on continuous standby in case Texas is ever asked again to help house evacuees.

About 900 people were sent to El Paso from New Orleans on Sept. 4, where they lived at the Convention Center for nearly two weeks.

Many local residents said they're glad to know El Pasoans will continue to provide a helping hand.

"I think it's a good thing to be helping here in El Paso, to know that our city is available to receive...people from anywhere," said Hector Espino of West El Paso.

When the call for volunteers went out during Hurricane Katrina, more than 5,000 El Pasoans stepped up to volunteer. Of those, 600 were trained to provide assistance.