How to help those affected by Texas flooding
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A massive rain event led to heavy floods in Texas over the weekend. Flash flooding has killed at least 89 people with many others still reported as missing.
Keep reading to learn more + find out how you can help from here in Alabama.
Alabama families impacted
Two communities here in Alabama have been closely impacted by the Texas floods.
Sarah Marsh, an 8-year-old girl from Mountain Brook, was among nearly 30 campers and counselors who lost their lives at Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp in Kerr County, Texas. She was a student at Cherokee Bend Elementary.
“This is a tragedy that no parent can prepare for and it will never be right this side of Heaven. While we are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, we request privacy as we navigate the unimaginable steps ahead. We continue to keep the fellow campers, staff, and families in our prayers — for their rescue and return home.”
The Marsh family
A couple from Mobile is still missing. They were reportedly staying in a cabin near the river while visiting family.
“Our hearts are broken for the Santana family and all those affected by the devastating flooding in Texas over the holiday weekend. We are praying for the safe return of Eddie Sr., Ileana, Camille, and Mila Rose, and we are asking the people of Mobile to lift this family in prayer during what is an unimaginable time of pain and uncertainty.”
Sandy Stimpson, Mobile mayor on Facebook
How you can help
- For those who wish to monetarily support victims of the flooding, GoFundMe has compiled a list of fundraisers for individuals, families, businesses and communities that have been verified by the website.
- The American Red Cross is currently working with partners to support emergency shelters by providing food, relief supplies and more. The nonprofit released a statement that they are not accepting financial or in-kind donations designated specifically for the Texas floods because they already have the necessary resources.
- This is a great reminder of the services that Red Cross chapters across the country provide during disasters of all kinds. To contribute to Birmingham’s local chapter, visit the Red Cross Mid-Alabama Chapter website.
- If you or someone you know is searching for someone who could be affected by the floods, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or contact the Red Cross casework teams with this 24/7 monitored form.
- Austin Pets Alive!, an animal rescue nonprofit, is seeking monetary donations after taking in more than 150 pets that were displaced by the floods.
- Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR) has deployed their services in Kerr County, and they are currently looking for donations to support their efforts, which include volunteer “ground pounders,” swiftwater teams, boats, drone teams and K9s.
- To learn more about TEXSAR and what they are doing to help folks in Texas, visit their website.
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