Summary Stats
Phase 1: Immediate Response
On July 4th, Kerr County, Texas, was devastated by a catastrophic weather event as months’ worth of rainfall fell in just four hours. The resulting flash floods caused the Guadalupe River to overflow, severely impacting the communities of Hunt and Kerrville. The flooding has led to tragic loss of life, with over 130 confirmed casualties, and has displaced hundreds of residents.
GEM and BStrong are on the ground providing critical disaster relief. Our teams are delivering immediate emergency aid and implementing programs for longer-term recovery efforts. We are actively supporting displaced families and individuals with BStrong cash cards to assist with those immediate & unexpected financial burdens. Distributions of our Family Necessity Kits, consisting of hygiene kits, non-perishable food, water, cleaning materials, and other necessities, is also presently taking place.
GEM has also implemented its Small Business Grant Program, which offers physically- affected small business owners, farmers, and artisans with recovery financial assistance. Other programs are currently being implemented; for inquires into these long-term initiatives, please email [email protected].
SMALL BUSINESS & ARTISAN GRANT PROGRAM
In response to the many business owners, artists, and entrepreneurs in Texas that had their livelihoods destroyed due to the recent flash flooding, GEM has activated its Small Business grant program. This program assists those who lost their businesses with financial support to be able to restart their work, regain income, and return to their craft.
Rental Assistance Program
Housing insecurity is a major threat after disaster that leaves families and individuals extremely vulnerable. Our rental assistance offers longer-term housing assistance to those displaced from the recent flooding in Texas.
Drywall Program
After specific disasters, such as floods or hurricanes, homes can quickly become inhabitable due to water damage, even if the foundation or structure seems sound. Our drywall program delivers sheets of Sheetrock to homeowners, allowing them to preform essential home repairs. For most homeowners, their house represents a lifetime of savings, and this support allows them to rebuild without the overwhelming burden of costly repairs or moving expenses.
Tool Replacement Program
Our tool program provides brand new tools for trades workers who have lost their equipment after a disaster. Natural disasters cause significant destruction, and empowering trades workers allows for community rebuilding efforts to begin quicker. This initiative has been extremely successful as it not only stimulates the recovery of the region, but brings tangible support and income back to business owners.
Partners
Robert & Elizabeth McCluney Trust
