With heavy hearts, we keep our friends, family, and neighbors who were affected by the Fourth of July floods in our thoughts this week.
words by Fallon Alexander
The events that took place over the past weekend were ones we could never have imagined, but one thing I’ve always admired about my Texas home is its emphasis on community and how we support one another. As the community navigates this time of turmoil, we wanted to use our platform to lend a helping hand. We compiled a list of different aid opportunities available, whether you can provide financial support or donate goods or services.
Austin Disaster Relief Network
ADRN has been actively administering aid since the early morning of July 4, and their efforts are far from over. When you donate through ADRN, you can be sure that your funding will go directly to supporting flood relief efforts. ADRN is also actively seeking volunteers to assist with aid initiatives. You can explore the various volunteer opportunities available on their Give Pulse page. Additionally, if you would like to donate supplies, ADRN has several Amazon Wishlists live with items needed for Survivor Hygiene Kits, Cleanup Bucket Supplies, and Storm Cleanup Supplies.
Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund will directly support flood relief efforts in the communities of Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and Comfort.
TEXSAR: Texas Search and Rescue
Sadly, many people are still unaccounted for today after the tragedy that unfolded this weekend. Texas Search and Rescue is still actively deploying services to Kerrville, Marble Falls, and Liberty Hills. They have established a dedicated fund to support their July 4 flood response efforts directly.
Get Connected with Volunteer Opportunities
- In Kerr County: The Kerrville Salvation Army location is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can call their hotline at 830-465-4797 to inquire about various volunteer efforts that currently need hands.
- In San Angelo & Concho Valley: You can fill out the Google form to be alerted to volunteer opportunities throughout the week.
Donation sites across Austin: Where to drop off supplies
- Round Rock Express: Through July 10, the Dell Diamond will serve as the home plate for a massive donation drive, where donors will receive a “Be Our Guest” pass, good for two reserved game tickets, in exchange for donations of hygiene product.
- Commodore Perry Estate: Located in Hyde Park, the hotel and social club accepts donations every day from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Donatable items include canned food, bottled water, clothing, hygiene products, and various cleaning supplies.
- The Brewtorium: A donation drop box will be available throughout the week at the bar, accepting water, non-perishable food, clothing, medical supplies, and pet supplies. These friends are opening up their warehouse to store these items as relief efforts continue.
- Treaty Oaks Distilling: Treaty Oaks is accepting donations daily from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. They are currently actively seeking donations of various cleanup items, storage tubs, flashlights, batteries, electrolyte packets, and drinks. You can find updated lists daily on their Instagram of what they are and are not accepting for donations. You can also lend a hand putting together relief kits and sorting donations daily from 12–4 p.m. at the distillery located at 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, Texas.
Businesses to Back in Support of Relief Efforts
- Hop Doddy: On July 9, all Hop Doddy locations across the country will donate 100% of their profits to TEXSAR: Texas Search and Rescue.
- P. Terry’s & Kerbey Lane Cafe: Both of these Austin-born restaurants will donate 100% of their profits from all locations on July 10 to flood relief funds.
- Vera Cruz Tacos: On July 10, all seven locations of this Austin staple will be donating 100% of their profits, in partnership with the American Red Cross Hill Country Chapter, to help provide shelter, food, and support to the affected central Texas communities.
- Justine’s: This east-side gem announced that it will be hosting a raffle at its night market this Saturday, July 12. The prizes will include goods from local businesses and vendors, with 100% of the proceeds from sales going to the Kerr County Relief Fund.
- Good Vibrations Pizza Company: Through July 13, this family-owned spot in South Austin will donate 100% of its profits to flood relief efforts and offer support in hauling donations and setting up a mobile pizza setup.
- Mama Bettys Tex-Mex Cantina: From July 11-13, this local favorite will donate 100% of profits from sales from the “Queso Por Favor” section of their menu to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.
- Hai Hospitality: Through the 13th, a portion of sales from Uchi, Uchiko, and Uchibā will support Mercy Chefs’ response in the Texas Hill Country.
- ATXGals & The Cathedral : Saturday July 12 and Sunday July 13, ATXGals and The Cathedral are hosting their annual summer art show featuring local women artist. In support of flood relief efforts, they will be donating 50% of ticket sales to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and Austin Pets Alive.
- Mernin Coffee Co.: The Austin-founded craft coffee company will donate 100% of profits through July 14 to the people of Kerr County.
- Kendra Scott & James Avery: Kendra Scott will donate 100% of the profits from every sale of their “Everlyne” bracelet. James Avery will donate 100% of the profits from the sale of their “Heart of Texas” charm.
Donate and Double It: Businesses Matching Donations
- Covert Auto Group: Direct message the dealership your receipt on Instagram, and they will match donations up to $25,000 to the Kerr County Relief Fund.
- Radio Coffee and Beer: Radio will match all in-store donations to the Kerr County Relief Fund at all three of their locations up to $10,000.
- Nova Hospitality: The friends behind Devil May Care, TenTen, The Well, and Mayfair will match donations of up to $5,000 to the Kerr County Relief Fund. Simply email your receipt to info@novahospitalitygroup.com.
Whether you can give your time, money, or supplies, we can make a difference together.
