Local FFA, 4-H organizations collecting gift cards to help relief efforts for flood victims
Two local student ag organizations — Breckenridge FFA and Stephens County 4-H — are collecting gift card donations to support those impacted by the recent floods in Central Texas.
The Associated Press and other news agencies are reporting that 104 people have died in the flash flood that destroyed camping areas along the Guadalupe River in the pre-dawn hours of July 4. Hundreds of survivors have been rescued and thousands of people have been displaced from their homes and businesses. According to the Dallas Morning News, officials in Kerr County, which has a population of around 50,000 residents, have said that at least 12,000 homes have been damaged.
At least one Breckenridge girl was at Camp Mystic and was safely evacuated on Friday.
Both the FFA and 4-H have “service” as a part of their programs. The FFA motto is “Living to Serve,” and 4-H pledge includes “I pledge my hands to larger service.” The two organizations are seeking assistance from the Breckenridge and Stephens County community to help them carry out their motto/pledge by coming together to support the Texas communities in need during this challenging time and by buying and donating specific types of gift cards for the relief efforts.
Breckenridge FFA
On the Breckenridge FFA Facebook page, local leaders said they are collecting gift cards since donation sites are filling up quickly and those assisting with the rescue/search/cleanup process are asking for gift card contributions to help families in need. Examples of gift cards needed include HEB, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Visa/Mastercard. Those will allow families to purchase essential items they need most right now. Fundraiser organizers ask that donors clearly label in marker the price of each gift card. That will help them when dividing up the gift cards.
If you’d like to contribute, an FFA adviser will be available at the Breckenridge High School ag building (across from the greenhouse) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday July 11. If you’re unable to drop by during these times, contact an ag teacher on the Breckenridge FFA Facebook page or personally.
Stephens County 4-H
Similarly, the Stephens County 4-H, along with the Texas 4-H organization, is collecting gift cards. They suggest Walmart, HEB and Visa pre-paid cards.
Locally, donors can drop off cards at the Stephens County Extension Service office, 2622 U.S. Highway 180 East, at the corner of Highway 180 and State Highway 67.
The cards also can be mailed to Texas 4-H, CC: Support, 2473 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843.
For more information, call the local Extension office at 254-559-2313.
