News Summary
The University of Texas at San Antonio and Trinity University are coming together to honor the victims of the recent floods that devastated Central Texas. With events planned for reflection and support, they aim to foster solidarity among students, faculty, and the local community. Amid tragedy, mental health resources and community recovery efforts are spotlighted as both universities continue to offer support to those affected by this heartbreaking disaster.
San Antonio Universities Unite in Tribute to Flood Victims
In the heart of San Antonio, an overwhelming sense of grief and camaraderie has swept over the local community following the recent devastating floods that struck Central Texas over the holiday weekend. The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and Trinity University, both pivotal establishments in the area, have made heartfelt statements acknowledging the tragic losses suffered by many.
A Community Reflection
To honor the victims and provide solace to those affected, UTSA is organizing a virtual reflection on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., with an on-campus gathering scheduled for Friday at noon. These events are designed to foster a supportive environment where students, faculty, and community members can come together to share their pain and memories of those lost in the floods.
Remembering the Missing
The shock of the situation has been profoundly felt at Trinity University, where a number of individuals remain missing following the flood. Among those unaccounted for are Aidan Heartfield, a marketing major expected to graduate in 2026, and Kellyanne Lytal, the daughter of the football offensive coordinator. The university community is holding its breath, hoping for their safe return while also offering resources for students seeking help during this difficult time.
Support Systems in Place
Trinity University has set up a welcoming space at the Parker Chapel foyer where students can find comfort. Each day at 11 a.m., a member of the Spiritual Life team is available to lend an ear. In addition to spiritual support, the university has mental health professionals on hand for students, along with a dedicated Employee Assistance Program for faculty and staff, ensuring everyone has access to the help they may need during this challenging period.
A Time for Mourning
The UTSA community is also mourning the loss of several relatives and friends, including faculty member Katheryn Eads, who was a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology. Tragically, two UTSA students, architecture major Reese Manchaca and management student Ella Cahill, also lost their lives in this disaster. The emotional toll is significant, and many community members are taking the time to support each other.
Widespread Tragedy
This flood disaster, which occurred on July 4, has regrettably led to over 107 confirmed deaths, including 27 children from a nearby Christian summer camp. This heartbreaking statistic underscores not just a loss of life but a loss of potential and futures unfulfilled. In response, Archbishop Gustavo GarcÃa-Siller of San Antonio has visited the flood-affected regions to provide support and share messages of faith, comfort, and solidarity.
Community Recovery Efforts
Despite the weight of this tragedy, the San Antonio community remains steadfast in their recovery efforts. Local organizations and compassionate individuals are actively organizing fundraisers and donation drives, all aimed at providing necessary support for those impacted by the floods. Green ribbons are appearing across Texas, symbolizing unity and mourning for the victims, particularly those from the heartbreaking Camp Mystic disaster.
Aiding the Hard-Hit
The Southern Smoke Foundation has stepped in with the launch of a Texas Hill Country Fund, specifically intended to assist hospitality workers who have been adversely affected by the flooding. The fund is set to start processing grant requests in August, with $150,000 already earmarked to help individuals and families recover. Furthermore, the foundation is partnering with the University of Houston to provide free counseling sessions to support those who are struggling emotionally due to this calamity.
Ongoing Support
Community initiative and resource drives are ongoing, focusing on ensuring donations reach those in need through trusted organizations. The people of San Antonio continue working together, committed to lifting one another up during this trying time while holding onto the hope of recovery for a better future.
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Additional Resources
- OSV News: Walking Suffering with Texas Flood Victims
- CBS News: Texas Floods – What to Know
- CultureMap: Texas Flood Donation Drive Resources
- New York Times: Texas Flood Victims
- USA Today: Texas Flooding Live Updates
- Google Search: Texas flood 2025
- Wikipedia: Texas floods
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
