When news reports began pouring in about the devastating flood on July 4th in Kerr County, Texas, and surrounding areas, hearts across the state broke. The rising waters of the Guadalupe River—surging nearly 26 feet in just 45 minutes—tore through homes, businesses, and summer camps.
One loss cut especially deep: When victims in Camp Mystic were swept away.
The tragedy stirred something in Rockwall County. It moved neighbors, friends, and strangers to act—not just in words, but in boots-on-the-ground aid.
Two Women, One Mission
Two Rockwall women, Melonie Oester and Debbie Warner, decided immediately that “someone should help” meant they would help.
Melonie, who owns a moving company with a large truck and trailer, planned to fill them with supplies and drive to the disaster zone herself. Debbie focused on organizing donation logistics and connecting with official relief channels—avoiding the chaos that can come when well-meaning but uncoordinated efforts overwhelm a disaster site.
They linked up with other local groups, communities, and individuals, forming a plan. Businesses began collecting supplies and donations. Donation stations were set up by McLendon-Chisholm Mayor Bryan McNeal and the fire chief at the fire station. On July 9th, a convoy of goods, volunteers, and funds rolled into Kerr County, headed for a temporary relief site organized by Intrepid Care, a 501(c)(3) founded by Mike Barker.
Thanks to landowner Marvin Golkhe and his wife, the base camp was established at Kimosabie Ranch (affectionately known as Camp MeMe) for search and rescue teams. What volunteers saw there was almost indescribable. “You can’t truly know until you witness it yourself,” many said.
Intrepid Care, known for supporting veterans through outdoor activities and camaraderie, pivoted its operations to disaster relief—coordinating volunteers, search teams, and emotional support. Their presence on the ground was a steadying force in the chaos, ensuring supplies reached those in need and providing respite for exhausted responders.
Inspired to Join In
The flood’s impact moved many in Rockwall County. Kevin Busher, for example, gathered a crew and equipment for search and rescue—at his own expense. Rowdy Crowell came a few days later from Royse City along with many others from all over the nation. Some made multiple trips, stayed longer, and found creative ways for the wider community to keep giving.
This spirit mirrored statewide efforts: musicians like Robert Earl Keen and George Strait staged benefit concerts; businesses like Freebirds World Burrito and Wells Cattle Co. donated proceeds; and organizations from Mercy Chefs to Americares provided food, medical care, and recovery support.
Why Ongoing Support Matters
The destruction in Kerr County took place in less than a day, but the recovery will take years. Over 850 people were rescued, and thousands lost homes, vehicles, and livelihoods. The emotional, financial, and physical toll is ongoing—not just for survivors, but for volunteers who carry the weight of what they’ve seen.
And yet, as media coverage fades, so does public attention. Out of sight too often means out of mind.
These communities still need us.
I can hear my mama say, “It’s not what you say but what you do.” Your contribution—whether it’s money, supplies, volunteering, or daily prayer—keeps the momentum alive. Even the smallest act matters.
These are not just headlines—they are lives. The people of Kerr County still need your prayers, your hands, and your compassion. As the saying goes, you will always get more than you give.
When we come together as one humanity, we can do so much.
To support relief efforts, contact Kerr County Flood Relief Fund via www.communityfoundation.net; IntrepidCare.org; Hill-Corp.org; mercychefs.com; americares.org; operationbbqrelief.org; convoyofhope.org; and give.salvationarmyusa.org.