Williamson County judge: Selfless service abundant in wake of tornadoes
In the aftermath of something devastating, like a tornado, I am most impressed not by the level of destruction, but by the outpouring of support. As I surveyed the damage after at least two tornadoes ripped through Williamson County and tore lives apart, I saw a flood of families, neighbors and friends come together to help those who were impacted. It is this spirit of selfless service to others that makes me thankful to live in Williamson County.
We know that our concerned residents are anxious to help those in need. Several groups are organizing volunteers to bring eager, helpful hands to tired, weary homeowners. If you would like to be part of this effort, we have several ways to assist those in need.
The Austin Disaster Relief Network has several ways to help those impacted by the Central Texas tornadoes. You can make a donation to the Central Texas Relief Fund, build a Survivor Care Kit, or find opportunities to help with debris removal on its website at adrn.org.
Area churches are working together to meet the needs of the community. Anyone who needs assistance with tornado cleanup efforts can fill out a survey at bit.ly/36j51jD.
Round Rock residents will find additional information specific for the city on its website at roundrocktexas.gov.
Recovery does not happen overnight. It is a long, arduous process to clean up and rebuild. Our Williamson County tornado-impacted neighbors will need our help not just tomorrow, but next week and next month. I hope that we can keep up our generous spirit to see our survivors through the entire process until they are safely sleeping under their own roof once more.
Today, despite the devastation, I am thankful for several things. I am thankful that during this event we did not have any loss of life. I am thankful to all the first responders who rushed in to assist our residents immediately following the storm to ensure that they were safe or attend to their needs. I am thankful for the utility providers, city workers and other essential employees who have been working long hours every day to restore our communities. I am thankful for our faith community that is stepping up and filling in the gaps to help others. I am thankful for all the family members, neighbors, friends and co-workers who have wrapped their arms around our survivors to give them the care and support they need. I am especially thankful for Aunt Bam Bam, who held up her hand, grabbed and hung on to her 3-year-old niece who, along with the house, was being swept away by a tornado.
I have heard this analogy before, and I believe it is true of our community. Each of us is like a strand of rope that can be torn apart, but together we make a strong bond that is not easily broken. Let’s continue to build each other up, have patience during these tough times and know that we are stronger when we pull together.
Bill Gravell is the county judge in Williamson County.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell: Selfless service abundant in wake of tornadoes
