A July 4 flood in Texas Hill Country caused catastrophic damage after the Guadalupe River rose 26 feet in less than an hour, fueled by more than 20 inches of rainfall. The disaster left 138 people dead, including 27 children and youth counselors at Camp Mystic.

Relief Drive Launch

By the evening, San Antonio–based Gunn Auto Group began organizing relief efforts. Partnering with Cox Media Group radio stations, the company launched the Help the Hill Country hygiene drive on July 7.

Collection bins were placed at Gunn dealerships across San Antonio and Seguin, including Gunn Acura, Buick/GMC, Chevrolet, Honda, Nissan, and Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Volunteers sorted and distributed supplies to impacted families and first responders.

Results of the Drive

The weeklong effort collected more than 22,000 pounds of supplies—an estimated 88,000 individual items. Donations included toothpaste, soap, deodorant, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products. First responders’ requests were also met with items such as electrolyte powder, socks, gloves, chainsaw oil, mosquito repellent, and sunscreen. One donor provided 75 new axes for recovery volunteers.

Three deliveries of supplies were made to four Hill Country distribution sites supporting displaced families.

Community Response

“Our Hill Country neighbors needed help, and the San Antonio community responded with heart,” said Gunn Auto Group CEO Sean Gunn. “The generosity we’ve seen across our dealerships shows how Texans support one another when disaster strikes.”

For information on contributing to recovery efforts, contact Melody Goeken at (210) 315-4655.