Stephanie Smith, an Ingram resident, teared up as she described what the donation meant to her.
KERR COUNTY, Texas — Houston philanthropist and furniture mogul Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale brought comfort and relief to flood victims in Ingram on Saturday, donating 500 mattresses to families affected by the devastating July 4 flood.
Known for his generosity and iconic Gallery Furniture commercials, McIngvale made the trip from Houston to personally deliver the beds alongside a team of volunteers.
“When people have trauma, the best thing they can do to cure their trauma is to sleep,” McIngvale said. “But it’s also the hardest thing to do. And when you’re sleeping on the floor around a sleeping bag, it’s almost impossible.”
The donation was made possible through Gallery Furniture’s “Buy One, Give One” campaign, where customers in Houston purchased mattresses with the understanding one would be donated to flood survivors in need.
“All the people in Houston just couldn’t wait,” said McIngvale. “They came out and bought all these mattresses. Our customers are happy because they’re helping their fellow Texans.”
Residents lined up to receive twin, full, queen and king-size mattresses, handed out by volunteers from Gallery Furniture, and the Heritage High School football team out of Fredericksburg. Gallery Furniture also partnered with local organizations like Hill Country Quilt Guild.
One recipient, who asked to remain anonymous, said the gesture meant more than words could express.
“We are so excited. We’re being blessed from Mattress Mack, and we feel appreciated.”
Stephanie Smith, an Ingram resident, teared up as she described what the donation meant to her.
“I’m blown away. I’ve been sleeping on a very old mattress on the floor,” she said. “It’s challenging enough to deal with the flood… and you get the gist.”
McIngvale, whose motto is typically, “To save you money,” said Saturday’s effort was about something bigger.
“We’re proud to be here. We’re proud to help. It’s what we do—Texans helping Texans.”