ST. LOUIS, Mo. — As Texas reels from devastating floods, Missouri volunteers are on the ground delivering critical aid.
With the death toll surpassing 100 and many still missing, recovery efforts are focused on Kerr County, one of the hardest-hit regions. Several groups from Missouri have joined the effort, offering both manpower and supplies.
Missouri Task Force One, a specialized unit of first responders from across the state based at the Boone County Fire Protection District, deployed 50 team members along with equipment earlier this week. They arrived in Texas late Tuesday night, ready to assist in search and recovery operations.
“The devastation is there and it’s everywhere,” said Assistant Fire Chief Gale Blomenkamp. “Imagine everything normal to you is suddenly gone. Our mission includes walking riverbanks and streets to conduct primary searches.”
They’re not alone in their efforts. The Grunt Style Foundation, a veteran-run nonprofit originally based in St. Louis, is also coordinating supply chains and donation logistics.
“This location acts as a hub,” explained Will Wisner, Executive Director of the foundation. “VFW posts and other groups drop off donations here. We sort and deliver what’s needed to command centers run by VFWs supporting search and rescue.”
As official agencies focus on emergency operations, veterans are filling in vital support roles.
“When local or state resources are stretched, organizations like ours and the VFW can keep supplies moving,” Wisner added.
With mounds of debris yet to be cleared and dozens still unaccounted for, these volunteers are committed to staying for the long haul.
“We’re proud to be here,” said Blomenkamp. “We wish it weren’t needed, but we’re here to provide help and closure.”
Wisner echoed the sentiment: “We’re combining our strengths to make the biggest difference for this community.”
The Grunt Style Foundation is currently accepting monetary donations to continue supplying search and rescue teams on the front lines.
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