Kemah residents and first responders rallied to collect donations for Texas Hill Country flood victims, filling trailers with supplies in less than 48 hours.
KEMAH, Texas — A massive wave of generosity has come out of Kemah, where residents and first responders rallied together to collect donations for communities devastated by the recent floods in the Texas Hill Country.
In less than 48 hours, the response was so overwhelming that organizers had to stop accepting donations — both trailers they set up to collect supplies were filled.
“We are very, very proud,” said Kemah Police Chief Raymond Garivey. “These are all things that came from people’s hearts.”
The effort was organized by the Kemah Police Department and city officials who know firsthand how powerful and destructive nature can be. With their own experiences from past hurricanes and storms, giving back felt personal.
“It’s what we do. We’re on the coast. We’ve been hit by hurricanes before,” Chief Garivey said. “They’ve done the favor for us. We’re just returning the favor.”
Donations included clothing, food, toiletries, and other essential items were all carefully sorted by volunteers who worked long hours to keep up with the growing piles.
As word of the drive spread, more and more people came forward to help. And while the recent floodwaters didn’t reach Kemah, city leaders said the pain felt in the Hill Country echoed deeply in their own memories.
“We know what it feels like to hurt,” said City Administrator Cesar Garcia. “So when we have the opportunity to help others, we all came together.”
For the people of Kemah, this wasn’t just about delivering supplies; it was about delivering a message of love and solidarity.
“We want them to know that we care, we love them, and we are here for them,” Chief Garivey said.
“Consider us tiny but mighty,” Garcia added.
And with that spirit, the trailers rolled out, carrying more than just donations, but also the heart of a community ready to lift others up.