Rogers nonprofit, Arkansas National Guard step in to aid Texas flood recovery

Arkansans are sending aid to South Texas for flood recovery efforts.

ARKANSAS, USA — Nearly two weeks after the July 4 floods devastated South Texas, recovery efforts are still underway — and Arkansans are stepping in to help on the ground. 

Lieutenant Kyle Cloutier of the Arkansas National Guard arrived in Kerrville on July 4 to assist with the disaster response.

“We’re here in relief and support of the Texas guard and anything that they need from us,” Cloutier said.

His team has been carrying out a range of critical tasks since their arrival, such as clearing debris, delivering meals and helping people evacuate out of dangerous zones. Cloutier said the damage is still extensive.

“A bunch of places where water shouldn’t be… when it should be in the river, it’s been in other places” he said. “It’s been quite a scene that we’ve seen down here.” 

Rogers-based nonprofit Sheep Dog Impact Assistance also deployed trailers full of supplies to Liberty Hill on Sunday. With more than 90 volunteers from 17 different states, their focus is on clearing debris and helping families recover irreplaceable items. 

“We’re finding Bibles. We’re finding jewelry, old coins. We found a Marines ring yesterday… they’re able to have a little bit of that past and hold onto a little bit of the hope of the future,” said Disaster Response Ambassador Giovanni Palavicini. 

Palavicini says their work is fueled by a shared passion to serve.

“We have a passion for people, and so we’re able to come alongside our brothers and sisters that are military and first responders to help out,” he said. 

Palavicini says the best way for the community to help is to donate — especially for people without flooding insurance. 

“These people are going to have a need financially to rebuild… any amount counts that you can help out with.”

Both Palavicini and Cloutier encourage families to accept the help being offered. 

“This is a long recovery process, allow for us to step in and bridge the gap,” Palavicini said.

Cloutier added, “We train week in and week out for things like this so that we can support our sister states. This is what we’re here for.” 

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