Behind the images of floodwaters on television are stories of heartbreak — lives lost, families shattered, homes and entire communities swept away. The devastating floods across central Texas have already claimed at least 89 lives, including 27 campers and counsellors at an all-girls Christian summer camp. Search and rescue teams continue to comb through debris and rubble, braving rising waters and relentless rain in the hope of finding the dozens of people still missing. Meanwhile, countless people are left to wonder how they will rebuild, and how they can possibly begin to move forward.
As Catholics, we know we cannot stand by. In 2018, Pope Francis reminded us: “We can do miracles through generosity. Generosity in little things.” The Archdiocese of San Antonio has pledged to stand with all those affected by the devastation. Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller shared: “We want to be in solidarity, in one heart with those who are suffering… Because every person is important, and every family in suffering is our responsibility as we receive the call to serve and to care.” Generous Catholics have already begun responding to the needs of their brothers and sisters affected by this disaster — providing immediate assistance and hope amid heartbreak.
Support Through Giving
If you are ready to answer the call for generosity to help those in need, the following list of organizations may provide a helpful starting point. Each has been screened for alignment with Catholic social teaching.
Catholic Charities of Central Texas
Central Texas Floods Disaster Relief
Catholic Charities of Central Texas serves anyone in need by offering immediate support, strengthening families, and promoting respect for human dignity and life.
World Central Kitchen
Texas Flood Relief
Providing meals, snacks, and shelter, and deploying disaster workers.
Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country
Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
Fostering a thriving Hill Country by inspiring giving, stewarding resources, and providing rescue, relief, recovery, and flood assistance.
If you have a donor advised fund at CCF and would like to direct a grant, you can click here to sign in to DonorSphere.
Support Through Prayer
God of compassion,
you are our refuge and our strength,
our sure rock in the midst of any storm,
the light which pierces every darkness,
and an anchor of hope for those who contend with despair.
Reach out your hand
to all those who are overwhelmed by the flood,
burdened by need, or shaken by disaster,
or feel as if they’re too weary to carry on.
May they receive that courage, resilience,
and healing grace that can only come from you.
We ask this in your holy name.
Amen.
From Catholic Charities USA.