What can seem like an ordinary day can turn into a disaster in a matter of minutes. Devastating flooding has caused many to lose not only their homes but all their belongings including cars, pets, blankets, and much more.
There are many ways in which the community can get together and help those who have lost everything.
According to the Austin Disaster Relief Network the main message they are receiving is, “I need help.” After over 12 inches of rainfall hit the Austin area, neighborhoods were flooded with as much as six feet of water and homes were swept away. A total of 470 homes were affected with major damage, while 170 had minor damage, according to the ADRN.
The families that suffered these tragedies do not qualify for federal funds and they need any help that they are offered; that’s where the community needs to step in and help those in need.
“I went to the community with my family and it was breath taking,” senior Santi Salazar said. “Homes were completely destroyed and unrecognizable. Families had lost everything and needed any help from anyone.”
There are plenty of ways to help the victims out including getting together with a group of friends, family members, or even going out to the South Austin Area to help clean up the mess made.
Any donation is appreciated and is a large step to those affected. If there are no personal connections that can be reached donations such as food, clothing, and any other items can be brought to the nearest Salvation Army or flood organization.
The Austin Disaster Relief Network has also put together a Central Texas Flood Relief Fund which donations can be made by check and PayPal. The United Way of Greater Austin is also collecting 10$ donations for long-term recovery efforts by texting ‘UWATX’ to 85944. The Red Cross Central Texas Chapter is accepting donations as well.
The more involved the community gets and the more aware the people in Austin are of the horrors that are going on, the faster the news will spread and lives can be repaired.
“It’s a serious tragedy that occurs here in Austin and not a lot of people know about it. In the future, I hope the homes will eventually be able to be rebuilt and allow the families to return to a proper home,” Salazar said.