Austin Jewish Center Raises $180K to Aid Victims of Texas Flood Disaster

In the wake of the deadliest flash flood disaster in the U.S. since 1976, the Jewish community in Austin, Texas, has stepped up in extraordinary fashion. Shalom Austin, the city’s central Jewish hub, has raised $180,000 in just two days to aid families and individuals devastated by the historic flooding that swept through Central Texas late last week.

The flooding has left a trail of destruction, with 109 confirmed deaths across six counties and many homes and summer camps along the Guadalupe River destroyed. Among the worst-hit was Camp Mystic, a private all-girls Christian camp in Kerr County, where dozens of children tragically lost their lives.

Moved by the scale of the catastrophe, Shalom Austin launched its Flood Relief Campaign immediately after Shabbat on Saturday night. Since then, donations have poured in from 36 states, reflecting a deep sense of national unity and shared responsibility.

“It’s pretty incredible to think about the outpouring [of support],” said Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus, CEO of Shalom Austin. “And that’s just over two days’ worth of fundraising efforts.”

The funds will support both Jewish and non-Jewish victims. Shalom Austin’s Jewish Family Service has already begun providing mental health support through licensed therapists. The initiative recognizes that healing requires more than financial aid it demands compassion, community, and emotional care.

Shalom Austin is also coordinating food drives and resource distribution with both local and national partners. A special committee is being formed to ensure that aid reaches those most in need efficiently and transparently.

The devastation has struck close to home. Rabbi Septimus confirmed that several Jewish families in the Austin area lost their homes, and many in the community personally know individuals who were killed in the flood.

Despite the tragedy, the response has been nothing short of inspiring. Jewish federations across Texas, and many others beyond state lines, have joined forces to offer help, proving once again that the strength of community knows no boundaries.

Though the floods did not discriminate, the response has been unified and deeply human. Austin’s Jewish community, through Shalom Austin, is living out the Torah’s call to “love your neighbor as yourself,” demonstrating solidarity, empathy, and leadership in a time of immense need.

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