URGENT UPDATE: A family in Sandy Creek, Texas, is set to receive a fully funded home rebuild, bringing hope after losing everything in the catastrophic floods of July 5, 2023. As of today, the Willis family is preparing to turn the page on a devastating chapter marked by loss and despair.
The floods, which struck during the 4th of July weekend, claimed the lives of at least 135 people across Central Texas, with significant casualties in nearby Kerr County. The Willis family was left with only a camp on their property, as their home was swept away in the deluge. “That used to be my house. It floated 10 feet in the air, well, in the water,” said resident Ashlee Willis, capturing the horror of that fateful day.
In response to the community’s dire need, Rebuild Sandy Creek, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Jenee Lamberton, has been tirelessly working to assist families affected by the floods. “We knew that the families out here didn’t have flood insurance,” Lamberton explained. Their initiative has already identified approximately 70 families seeking help to rebuild their lives.
Today, Lamberton and her team arrived at the Willis’s camp site, surprising them with the incredible news that their home rebuild will be fully funded. “This particular family was selected unanimously from our board of 5 people to be our first one,” Lamberton stated, highlighting the importance of this moment for the family.
The emotional reunion unfolded as the family enjoyed a film after brunch. When Ashlee opened the door, she was handed a notice that left her in tears, prompting her to call her mother and other relatives outside. The announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Willis family, who have endured months of uncertainty and heartache. “It took us 7 weeks to get back here. At first, it was exciting and then daunting, and then horrifying again somehow,” Willis reflected on their journey.
As the community rallies behind the Willis family, the plans for the new home are already in motion. Multiple Lowe’s pink flags now dot the property, signifying where the new house will stand. This marks a significant step toward rebuilding not just a home, but also the family’s sense of stability and hope.
Despite the progress, Lamberton emphasizes that the work is far from over. “The nonprofit will need additional funds to help more families with the expensive projects of rebuilding their homes,” she stated. As the community continues to come together, donations are crucial for making these rebuilding efforts a reality.
In a heartfelt reflection on the support received, Willis remarked, “My faith in humanity had been previously restored through all of this, but now I may believe in miracles again.”
As the Willis family prepares for their new beginning, they embody the resilience and strength of a community determined to rise from the ashes of disaster. For those looking to support Rebuild Sandy Creek, your contributions can make a significant impact on the lives of families still recovering from this tragedy.
Click here to donate to Rebuild Sandy Creek and help bring hope to more families in need.
