Pam Allen, founder of Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach, said the vigil will also recognize the work of first responders.
SAN ANTONIO — Two San Antonio nonprofits are stepping up to unite the community for a moment of healing and remembrance in light of the flash floods last week that took the lives of 13 men and women.
Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach alongside San Antonio Aware and Prepared, will host a candlelight vigil Wednesday June 18 at 8 p.m. The event will take place in the parking lot of the San Antonio Aware and Prepared headquarters, located at 5819 Northwest Loop 410.
“This is a time for our community to come together and grieve and hold one another,” said Pam Allen, founder of Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach. “Nobody knew that their loved one wasn’t coming home that day and so we want to support the families.”
As of Sunday, the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified all but one of the 13 victims, whose ages range from 28 to 63.
KENS 5 recently met with the loved ones of 51-year-old Matthew Tufono, who was driving to work when he became trapped in the rushing waters in the Perrin Beitel area near Austin Highway. Just hours before, Matthew had celebrated his birthday with family.
“Even during his fight with cancer, he was so optimistic,” his daughter, Shannon said. “He wanted us to see the beauty in life and stay hopeful, no matter what. ‘Life’s too short,’ he always said.”
Allen stressed the vigil is open to everyone; from grieving families and friends to first responders. Beyond the vigil, the nonprofits are offering ongoing support to flood-affected families. That includes help with food, clothing, financial resources and other essential needs.
“Just join hands and let the families see that we support them,” Allen said. “And not just the families but those first responders, those who helped search and recover. I’m sure that job is tremendously hard and we want to honor them too.”