BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
In the span of just a few hours, torrential rains turned the Guadalupe River into a raging torrent, submerging homes, campsites, and communities across the Texas Hill Country. Entire families were swept away with little warning. Campers, many of them children, were caught in a flash flood that rose over 25 feet in under an hour. Helicopters buzzed overhead in a desperate attempt to locate the missing. Boats combed the muddy waters. And the numbers, heartbreakingly, continue to rise.
As of this writing, at least 119 are confirmed dead and many remain missing. The death toll is expected to grow. This has become one of the deadliest floods in Texas history, striking during what should have been a summer of joy and togetherness. The communities of Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, and beyond are reeling.
While the water has begun to recede, the grief, devastation, and need remain overwhelming. But even in the face of such loss, there are still many powerful things we can do to help.
Below are trusted organizations offering support on the ground, and ways you can contribute directly to relief, rescue, and recovery efforts.
1. American Red Cross
The American Red Cross Serving Central and South Texas has opened emergency shelters in affected areas and is actively providing aid. You can donate online at RedCross.org/donate and select “Your Local Red Cross” or “Disaster Relief.” You can also call 1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-435-7669) to give by phone.
2. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army of Texas has deployed mobile kitchens to provide meals and hydration. Donations can be made at HelpSalvationArmy.org or by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
Volunteers are also welcome. Visit Volunteer.SalvationArmyTexas.org to check current opportunities. Donations of nonperishable goods, hygiene items, diapers, and baby wipes are being accepted at the Kerrville Kroc Center (855 Hays St), which posts updates on Instagram.
3. Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has launched a relief fund to support vetted local organizations in Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and Comfort. Donations go directly to rescue, recovery, and rebuilding efforts. Learn more and contribute at CommunityFoundation.net.
4. Austin Pets Alive!
In addition to human tolls, the flooding has displaced dozens of pets. Austin Pets Alive! is providing on-site veterinary care and has transported more than 50 animals to shelters. The organization is in urgent need of fosters, volunteers, and donations. To help, visit AustinPetsAlive.org.
5. World Central Kitchen
Chef José Andrés’s nonprofit, World Central Kitchen, has set up emergency food and water relief operations. Their team is providing meals to survivors, including stranded campers. To support their work, donate or follow their efforts at WCK.org.
6. Junior League of Austin
While the Junior League of Austin has temporarily paused accepting physical goods due to overwhelming response, they continue to update their social media with evolving needs. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information and future opportunities to help.
7. TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue)
This nonprofit first responder team is playing a vital role in rescue and recovery. They are working toward a fundraising goal of $250,000 to support operations. Visit TEXSAR.org to donate and follow their mission.
8. Verified GoFundMe Campaigns
GoFundMe has created a hub for verified fundraisers supporting victims of the Texas floods. You can search for campaigns by location under “Texas flood relief” and contribute directly to families and individuals in need. Visit GoFundMe.com.
In grief, there is still hope
Tragedies like these remind us of how fragile life is, and how strong our communities can be. Whether it’s $5, a box of diapers, or a shared post on social media, every gesture matters.
The floodwaters may have carved through Texas, but compassion runs deeper. Let’s show up for the families who have lost so much and remind them they’re not alone.
