Central Texas Flooding: What’s Happening and How You Can Help

Over the past week, Central Texas has been devastated by historic flooding that has killed more than 100 people, including at least 28 children. Some of the worst damage has been concentrated in Kerr County, where floodwaters overwhelmed communities with terrifying speed. Heavy rainfall, up to 20 inches in some areas, caused rivers like the Guadalupe to rise more than 25 feet in under an hour. Rescue efforts continue, but officials warn that more rain is expected in the coming days.

Communities across the Hill Country are now navigating the aftermath: collapsed homes, impassable roads, power outages, and missing loved ones. In the wake of this devastation, local organizations, national nonprofits, and everyday Texans have stepped up to provide emergency assistance and support.

The Texas AFL-CIO has published a Central Texas Flood Resources & How to Help guide. It includes information on local shelters, hot meals, volunteer needs, and donation opportunities. Organizations such as the Salvation Army, World Central Kitchen, Mercy Chefs, and TEXSAR are on the ground providing everything from rescue operations to clean water and meals. Local businesses, including H-E-B, Whataburger, and numerous restaurants, are also distributing supplies and matching donations.

While Central Texans are strong and resilient, the scale of this disaster means they can't do it alone. Volunteers are urgently needed, and donations of non-perishable food, hygiene products, bottled water, baby supplies, and funds will go a long way.

Texas AFT and our local unions have reached out to members throughout the affected areas, and we stand ready to assist with our Disaster Relief Fund. If you and your family have been affected by the flooding, please reach out to us at (800) 222-3827 or info@texasaft.org, so we can provide you with the application for disaster relief.

If you're a member in a different part of the state and wondering how you can help, the Texas AFL-CIO resource guide lists opportunities to get aid to affected Texans. We also welcome donations to our Disaster Relief Fund, which supports AFT members recovering from disasters like this one.

As the region continues rescue and recovery efforts, we urge you to support however you can. Whether you donate, share resources, or show up to help, solidarity can, and will, make a difference.