In the aftermath of severe flooding in the Texas Hill Country and Central Texas, local businesses have played a key role in supporting relief and recovery efforts. Companies of various sizes have provided resources, services, and financial contributions to help affected communities begin the process of rebuilding.
According to Jeremiah Bentley, vice president of marketing and community affairs at Texas Mutual Insurance Company, and Justen Noakes, executive director of BeforeDuringAfter, “This is the kind of community spirit we’ve come to expect in Texas—but as cleanup has transitioned to long-term recovery, the road ahead requires continued and intentional support from every corner of the state.”
Several businesses have taken notable steps in response to the disaster. H-E-B deployed its disaster response unit with mobile kitchens and aid deliveries. Local restaurants such as P. Terry’s and Kerbey Lane contributed proceeds from sales to flood relief initiatives. Donations have also been directed toward organizations like the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and the Central Texas Community Foundation.
The authors highlighted that recovery is a lengthy process: “But this kind of corporate giving can’t stop when the camera crews leave. Recovery isn’t a moment; it’s a process.” They also pointed out that natural disasters pose significant risks for small businesses. Data from FEMA indicates that 40 percent of small businesses never reopen after such events, while estimates from the U.S. Small Business Administration suggest this number could be as high as 90 percent.
Bentley and Noakes stated, “At Texas Mutual Insurance Company and BeforeDuringAfter, we’ve seen firsthand how strategic giving and long-term planning can ease the burden on communities, and especially businesses, recovering from disaster.” They emphasized that corporate philanthropy should be an ongoing commitment rather than a single act.
Businesses are encouraged to incorporate social responsibility into their operations by supporting vetted relief funds, providing paid volunteer time for employees, or partnering with nonprofits based on local needs. The importance of following guidance from community leaders was also stressed: “The most effective recovery efforts are those led by communities themselves, and businesses should follow their lead.”
Bentley and Noakes concluded by urging companies to sustain their support over time: “Recovery from these floods will take years. Let’s not let the momentum fade. And let’s make sure that our support doesn’t come with an expiration date.”
Jeremiah Bentley is vice president at Texas Mutual Insurance Company; Justen Noakes leads BeforeDuringAfter.
