Organizations pull together, offer aid for families, workers affected by flood
Volunteers and recovery organizations continue working to help Comfort families affected by the recent floods.
April McDonald, vice chair of the Comfort Chamber of Commerce, headed an area at Comfort Community Park with supplies and food items. Kendall County Animal Shelter Director Charity Fegenbush manned a drive-thru for free pet supplies and food. In just an hour, they helped 25 families and volunteers.
“We aren’t just providing food, we are all-around supply,” McDonald said, adding that they aren’t just open to volunteers and those who lost their homes.
“We need to remove the perception that this stuff is only for people whose houses got flooded. People who may have worked cleaning out cabins are now out of work, and don’t have a source of income. We invite them to take what they need.” Supplies in the center included everything from shovels to cleaning supplies, diapers to canned goods. However, there is still a need for more.
“Right now, we are in need of toilet paper and paper towels,” McDonald said. “We also need new generators — not used — about four or five of them for the volunteers. They can drop them off here (Comfort Community Park).”
The community made sure not to forget its furry friends. Fegenbush and her group of volunteers received donations of pet food, pet toys, leashes and even dog beds.
“Not just for dogs and cats, either,” Kendall County Animal Control Officer Reanna Ritter- Breaux said. “We have horse feed, goat food and lots of food and water. We have over 10,000 pounds of feed to give out.”
The volunteers saw families show up from Center Point and Kerrville. One woman, who asked not to be identified, lost everything in the flood. She became emotional when a volunteer hugged her and encouraged her to take as much as she needed.
“It isn’t easy to admit you need help,” Dinah Johnson, executive director of the Comfort Golden Age Center, said. “That’s why we don’t ask questions. Just take what you need. You don’t need to explain your situation.”
Volunteers even began delivering goods to homes using their trucks.
“It’s been immensely helpful,” McDonald said.
To donate, goods, time or money, visit: https:// comfortfloodrelief.com/ home/11873/3525.
Deep debris piles line the banks of the Guadalupe River. Authorities have cautioned landowners from destroying the debris, as search-and-rescue operations for victim remains are still ongoing.
Star photo by Veronica Rector
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