Cy-Fair ISD FFA Chapters Raise Over $20,000 in Gift Cards for Texas Hill Country Flood Victims
As heartbreaking images and news poured in from the flood-ravaged Texas Hill Country over the Fourth of July weekend, students across Cypress-Fairbanks ISD didn’t just watch—they mobilized.
In a powerful act of solidarity, FFA chapters from multiple Cy-Fair ISD high schools collectively raised more than $20,000 in gift cards for flood relief efforts in Kerrville, Hunt, and the surrounding Hill Country, where catastrophic flash flooding claimed over 120 lives and left dozens still missing. Their efforts were part of a broader statewide initiative coordinated through Texas FFA and faith-based partners like Seitz Fundraising, aimed at delivering direct aid to impacted families.
To rally support, Cy-Fair ISD FFA chapters called on local families, supporters, and community members to contribute to the cause, organizing a gift card drop-off event at the CFISD Exhibit Center on July 10. The response was swift and generous—helping the chapters surpass their $20,000 milestone.
The natural disaster, intensified by a stalled weather system fueled by remnants of Tropical Storm Barry, dumped over 20 inches of rain in under 24 hours, sending the Guadalupe River surging 26 feet in just 45 minutes. Among the most tragic scenes was at Camp Mystic in Hunt, a beloved Christian girls’ camp, where 27 campers and counselors perished.
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In response, the Texas FFA community quickly turned anguish into action.
"Over the past several days, we’ve struggled to understand why tragedies like this happen," the Texas FFA shared in a statement. "Yet in the midst of heartbreak, we’ve also witnessed the very best of what makes Texas so special—communities coming together, neighbors helping neighbors, and people showing up with compassion and strength."
The Cy-Fair ISD FFA chapters demonstrated exactly that spirit. Their gift card donations—which included high-demand options like Walmart, H-E-B, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and prepaid Visa cards—are being funneled directly to families through local Hill Country FFA chapters and partners like Marble Falls FFA, who are leading “Pack it with a Purpose” relief drives on the ground.
These student-led efforts are already making a tangible difference. The cards will help flood victims purchase food, clothing, cleaning supplies, and critical home repair materials—essentials as many begin the long road to rebuilding.
The Cy-Fair FFA community’s generosity joins a growing list of organizations across the state stepping up, including Kendra Scott, Pluckers, and Austin Pets Alive!, all channeling donations and resources to the affected region. The American Red Cross, Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR), and the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country are also heavily involved in the recovery.
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Governor Greg Abbott has requested federal aid for several counties, including FEMA Individual Assistance for Burnet, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis, and Williamson counties, and FEMA Public Assistance for Kendall, Kimble, Menard, and San Saba counties. Over 2,200 state personnel have been deployed to support relief efforts.
For those still wanting to help, Texas FFA continues to accept donations through its Crisis Fund, ensuring that 100% of proceeds go directly to relief efforts supporting agricultural students and families in affected areas.
As the Hill Country begins to heal, the compassion from young people in communities like Cy-Fair serves as a symbol of hope—a reminder that even in the wake of tragedy, unity and service can pave the way forward.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for continuing updates on relief efforts and community response in the Cy-Fair and greater Houston area.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
