Even though the Hunt Store is barely standing after the flood, the community it represents remains strong.
HUNT, Texas — The town of Hunt is working to rebuild after a deadly flood devastated the small Texas community just days ago, with the historic Hunt Store serving as the central gathering point for residents and volunteers providing relief efforts along the Guadalupe River.
Despite being destroyed by the recent flooding, the Hunt Store has become the heart of the community’s recovery, where volunteers are serving three free meals a day and distributing supplies to anyone in need. The store, which has been a meeting place for locals and visitors for decades, is now the symbol of the town’s resilience.
“It looks like everybody’s in pretty good spirits. We’re definitely getting more encouraged just by being together,” said Haley Lehrmann, owner of the Hunt Store.
Help began arriving on Saturday and has continued steadily since then. When the rain finally stopped and the sun revealed the extent of the damage, it also showed what remains of the community’s spirit.
Among the volunteers are folks from Rockport who brought barbecue smokers to help feed the community. These volunteers have a special connection to Hunt – Lehrmann had organized a fundraiser for them back in 2017 when they needed help. Now they’re returning the favor, promising to keep cooking for as long as it takes.
The scene shows strangers compelled to come to this spot along the Guadalupe River, bringing food and supplies. Tonight, there was more food than mouths to feed, demonstrating the overwhelming generosity of those responding to the disaster.
Even though the Hunt Store is barely standing after the flood, the community it represents remains strong. The town is getting back on its feet, embodying the spirit of “Hunt Strong” as residents and volunteers work together in the recovery effort.