A massive flood rapidly swept across areas surrounding Texas’ Guadalupe River July 4, stranding thousands of Kerr County residents and causing 120 deaths so far.
The flood is now one of the deadliest and most destructive natural disasters in Texas history, and as the deluge continues to devastate Hill Country, many in the meetings industry and beyond are wondering how they can help the impacted communities.
Here’s a list of organizations and groups you can support to help those affected by the Texas floods.
MPI Supported Organizations
These organizations are those that have been recommended and trusted by MPI:
- Kerr County Flood Relief Fund: Led by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country
- American Red Cross – Central & South Texas: Provides shelter and emergency assistance to those displaced by the floods
- TEXSAR – Texas Search & Rescue: Supports-the-ground recovery operations
- Mercy Chefs: Delivers hot meals to survivors and first responders
- Kerrville Pets Alive: Rescues and cares for displaced pets and animals
“To our Hill Country members and everyone affected—please know that the entire MPI community is thinking of you and standing with you during this difficult time,” said President and CEO of MPI Paul Van Deventer in a statement that provided the resources.
SEARCH Foundation and Meetings Industry Fund
The SEARCH foundation is an organization formed in 1997 that assists meetings and event professionals faced with life threatening illnesses or catastrophic occurrences such as hurricanes, floods, wildfires and accidents.
The organization has created a list of resources and an application for those affected by the flooding, as well as an option for people to donate to relief efforts. More information can be found on the SEARCH foundation website.
The Meetings Industry Fund is another organization that provides financial assistance during times of disaster, medical illness or other emergencies. Those impacted by the Texas floods can apply for financial assistance from the fund, and the organization is currently seeking donations for those impacted. More information can be found on the Meetings Industry Fund website.
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