When many of us awoke on July 4th, we woke with perhaps a bit of disappointment that Independence Day celebrations were canceled due to the weather, but we were grateful for the day off and the much-needed rain. For many of our friends and neighbors to the northwest along the Guadalupe River, however, the floodwaters and the nightmare had already been raging for hours by the time the sun began to rise.
As the news of destruction and tragedy began to spread that day, we were, of course, shocked by the devastation and loss of life. But something else welled up in our hearts that was more powerful and unstoppable than any flood: compassion.
What came next was an outpouring of support for the days, weeks, and months that followed. Boerne’s first responders rushed to the scene to pluck survivors from trees. Local restaurants and grocery stores gave away tons of food and supplies prepared and delivered with hope and love. Businesses and organizations held flash sales, created signs and t-shirts, and gave to support the relief efforts. Even after the waters receded, the attention faded, and the clean-up slogged on, our community remained determined to help and committed to action.
For all the ways you did and continue to step up, we at Boerne Lifestyle Magazine say "thank you" from the bottom of our hearts. And we invite you to help us help where it's still needed most: individuals and families directly impacted. You don't have to give any money. All we ask is that you take a moment to tell us whom we can help. Our national network, City Lifestyle, provides direct monetary assistance to people around the holidays each year. But to support the efforts already underway in our community, City Lifestyle is looking for nominations to provide relief to those greatly impacted by the floods. You'll find more details on the next page.
While not all of us suffered an immediate loss that day, we all felt the impact. We know that tragedy for one of our neighbors is a tragedy for us all. So, together, we can grieve. Together, we can rise, rebuild, and recover. Together, we can put compassion into action. Together, we can be Hill Country strong.