Faith-Based Groups Rally To Aid Texas Flood Victims

Devastating floods over the Independence Day weekend caused widespread damage throughout the Texas Hill Country, prompting an extensive volunteer relief response from several faith-based and community organizations.

At least 111 people died in the floods, including more than two dozen campers and counselors from Camp Mystic in Kerr County. Search and rescue operations continue as teams work to locate dozens of missing people.

On Tuesday, Major Phil Swyers of Salvation Army Kerrville told Fox News the organization has distributed more than 27,000 drinks and 4,000 meals since the flood. Swyers explained that “as the phases move from search and rescue … we will then begin to become long-term recovery where we are looking to assist people to try to get their lives back.”

Multiple organizations have joined the relief effort in the Kerrville area, including the American Red Cross, United Cajun Navy, TEXSAR, and Samaritan’s Purse.

Edward Graham, Samaritan’s Purse chief operating officer, said the organization is focused on cleaning flood-affected homes to prevent mold damage. He added that the scenes in Kerrville are devastating.

“There’s helicopters everywhere, there’s still cadaver dogs, there’s still people on horseback looking for those that are missing,” he told Fox News’ Will Cain. “I know some people won’t get their answers anytime soon, but we want people in Texas to know they’re not forgotten.”

In the Austin area, the small suburb of Liberty Hill experienced similar community support after three of the region’s at least 15 flood deaths occurred there. The community response was so overwhelming that officials temporarily stopped accepting donations.

Liberty Hill’s Cross Tracks Church served as an emergency shelter, logistics hub, and donation site, according to a statement by the Rev. Dr. Brad King, the church’s pastor.

“I have … been absolutely blown away by the outpouring of love, support, and donations not only from folks in our immediate community but from folks all over our beautiful Hill Country,” King said.