Texas Hill Country Flood Relief: Stories of Tragedy, Heroism, and Hope

Texas Hill Country Flood Relief: Stories of Tragedy, Heroism, and Hope
July 7, 2025 - A Special Episode

In the wake of the devastating July 4th floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country, we dedicate this episode to honoring the lives lost, celebrating the heroes who emerged, and providing vital information for those wanting to help with relief efforts. The numbers are heartbreaking: around 80 confirmed dead, with 68 in Kerr County alone, and search and recovery efforts continuing for those still missing.

But amid the tragedy, we've witnessed incredible stories of resilience and the true spirit of Texans helping Texans.

Stories of Survival and Heroism: We share the harrowing account of Houston brothers Brock and Braeden Davis, who survived 13 hours of rising floodwaters at Camp La Junta. Plus, the remarkable story of Jonathon McComb, the sole survivor of the 2015 Wimberley floods, who has returned as a volunteer with TEXSAR to help with current rescue efforts—proving that sometimes our greatest pain becomes our greatest purpose.

How You Can Help: The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has established the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, with 100% of donations going directly to trusted local organizations. We explain why cash donations are most effective and share the website: communityfoundation.net.

Relief Efforts in Action:

• The Salvation Army Kerrville serves as the Official Partner for Volunteer Coordination at 855 Hayes St. (phone: [phone])
• HEB's rapid response, including mobile kitchens in Ingram and support across impacted areas
• Kerrville Pets Alive's efforts to rescue and reunite flood-displaced animals (kerrvillepetsalive.com)
• Grape Juice Kerrville's grassroots meal preparation for evacuees and first responders

A Personal Connection: As someone who has vacationed in the Hill Country for years and spent childhood summers at Bear Creek Scout Reservation, this tragedy hits close to home. We discuss what makes this region so special and why its recovery matters to all of us. This episode serves as both a call to action and a testament to the unbreakable spirit of Texas communities. In our darkest hours, we see the brightest examples of human compassion and resilience.

Governor Abbott declared July 6th a "Day of Prayer" for the victims, survivors, and recovery efforts. We continue to pray for the Hill Country and stand ready to help however we can.