How to help Texas flooding survivors

(NewsNation) — Fast-moving floodwaters killed more than 100 people in central Texas over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, and dozens were still missing Tuesday.

An early morning deluge of rain, nearly 12 inches, flowed through Texas’ Hill Country region and raised the Guadalupe River by 26 inches. The flooding inundated homes, covered roadways and trapped residents — including children attending summer camp in the area.

Here is a list of organizations assisting in the effort to help the Texas flooding victims.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross has opened some of its central and southern Texas shelters following the flooding, according to local reporting.

Those wanting to make donations can visit RedCross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) to make a financial donation or schedule a blood donation appointment.

Austin Disaster Relief

Austin Disaster Relief, a network of churches that offer “physical, emotional, and spiritual support to disaster survivors,” is accepting both donations and volunteers.

Austin Pets Alive!

Nonprofit pet shelter Austin Pets Alive! said it has saved more than 150 pets from flooded areas. The organization has coordinated search and rescue groups working along riverbanks to find animals and is taking donations for pet supplies.

Monetary donations are preferred, the organization said.

Kerrville, one of the hardest-hit areas by the floods, also has a branch accepting donations: Kerrville Pets Alive!

Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has set up a Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

The nonprofit foundation will route any donations to vetted organizations aiding communities in Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point and Comfort.

“While we are unable to award grants directly to individuals or families — or to fund repairs to private property or replace personal belongings — we are committed to channeling resources to the trusted organizations working tirelessly to help our neighbors in need,” the foundation page reads.

Donation drop-off locations

Several area businesses are serving as drop-off and pick-up spots for supplies.

The Brewtorium, Austin Flea Market, Commodore Perry Estate and Lucky Lab Coffee Co. are all accepting relief donations, including canned food, bottled water, hygiene products and pet products.

Other drop-off locations include Spare Birdie Public House, Kind Folk Apothecary, 5th Element Brewing and Hope Presbyterian Church.

Check each business’s website for more information.

GoFundMe

Crowdfunding platform GoFundMe has an ongoing list of verified campaigns out of central Texas.

Hands Off Central Texas

Hands Off Central Texas, a coalition of individuals and grassroots organizations, has organized a fundraiser for mutual aid in the counties impacted by the Fourth of July floods.

H-E-B

The Texas-based grocery chain is accepting donations to its Spirit of Giving Fund for flood victims in Kerrville and Hill Country.

Mercy Chefs

Mercy Chefs, a faith-based, nonprofit disaster and humanitarian relief organization, is “providing hot, chef-prepared meals to victims, first responders, and volunteers in the days ahead,” its website reads.

Project MEND

Have spare medical equipment? Nonprofit Project MEND is asking for gently used equipment donations, such as a wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, knee scooters or canes.

TEXSAR

Texas Search and Rescue is asking for donations to deploy volunteers, swift-water teams, boats, drones, K-9s and more.

“More members continue to arrive as others phase out and return to their ‘regular’ lives,” TEXSAR said. “As the waters recede, there are more debris fields to go over. This is going to be a continuing, long-term response.”

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army said it has served 1,700 meals and more than 10,000 drinks to those affected by flooding in the area. The organization is also working to distribute hygiene kits, blankets and other essential items.

“The Salvation Army is currently serving in the affected communities of Hunt, Ingram and Kerrville. We have three fully stocked mobile feeding units that began Saturday morning serving survivors at emergency shelters in Kerrville,” said Major Phil Swyers, with the Salvation Army in Kerrville. 

To make a donation, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or go to helpsalvationarmy.org. To volunteer in the area, call 830-465-4797.

Operation BBQ Relief

Operation BBQ Relief is cooking up hot meals for first responders and displaced residents in Texas. Donations will help fund more food for victims.

According to the organization, a $25 donation provides four meals. Volunteer positions are also available.

World Central Kitchen

The World Central Kitchen is asking for donations to continue providing fresh food to flood survivors.

Volunteer with FEMA

For those looking to help on the ground, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has a voluntary agency liaison program to “build relationships and coordinate efforts with voluntary, faith-based and community organizations active in disasters.”

Can’t volunteer? FEMA also takes donations of essential items, though it does not recommend donating your used clothing. Click here for more information.