Kerr County residents are cleaning out homes and businesses after the second devastating flood in as many years. The flood has caused significant damage, with the city of Kerrville estimating $30 million in infrastructure damage to its water treatment plant, sewage lift stations, and roads and bridges.

Community Response

Despite the damage, the community is coming together to support each other. School sports teams, locals who suffered through last year’s floods, and some volunteer organizations have been serving meals and cleaning out homes. However, philanthropic groups report that donors haven’t given as much as last year.

Nathan Rich, a 24-year-old mechanic, had his business and home damaged in the flood. He received help from volunteers, which made a huge difference in his ability to reopen his shop. “It’s not even necessarily about the money. It’s about just showing that there’s people that care,” Rich said.

Call for Help

Liz Ayala, a 42-year-old clinical research coordinator, rushed to help her family and neighbors after the flood. She found a block of people who didn’t know what to do after their homes flooded. Ayala’s family home was severely damaged, and they are still waiting to see if they will receive any financial help to rebuild.

Mayor Joe Herring visited Ayala’s family home and acknowledged that there is a lot more help needed. “Where do they live while they’re waiting for their homes to be restored? What’s the next step?” Herring said.

Kerr County Commissioner Tom Jones quoted Psalms 34, saying, “The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.'” Jones added, “That’s kind of where we’re at right now, right? We are kind of crushed in spirit, but this is the most resilient place I’ve ever been a part of.”

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.