TEMPLE, Texas — Many families and businesses in Temple have been impacted by recent storms and tornadoes and need help. There's also a large number of people who are looking to lend a hand to those in need. Thanks to one Central Texan, there is now an easy and safe way for the groups to connect.
Kristina Ridgway, a 13-year Central Texas resident, wanted to do something to help those who had suffered loss from the May 22, 2024 storm. With so much support and so many resources being offered to those impacted, she knew a connection needed to be made.
"I just thought we can make a group and match those needs with people that are offering to help," Ridgway said. "It's just a safe space for people to go in and ask for help and know that there's someone on the other side that's trying to match them with someone that's offered to help."
Since being created on May 23, 2024 -- Temple, TX Tornado Recovery Needs has already grown to more than 2,500 members. Ridgway said at first there were a lot of requests for tree and debris removal, as well as electricity problems. However, as of late, there have been more requests for necessities like food and water.
"We're trying to find organizations that have food pantries open that people can go pick those up and just listing those groups and organizations where people can go donate the food," Ridgway explained.
Some food resources include Salvation Army Bell County, Hope for the Hungry, Love of Christ Food Pantry and Churches Touching Lives for Christ.
Local organizations and businesses like Bold Republic Brewing Company have also teamed up to hold a community fundraiser to collect things like food, clothing, toiletries, toys and monetary donations. More information on the fundraiser can be found at this link.
On the Facebook group page, there's a "featured" tab that directs visitors to a list of resources they may need if they are in need of help after the storms.
"Have the courage to ask because there are people out there that really do want to help you," Ridgway said.
Ridgway told 6 News she is so proud to see how the community is coming together to help one another and it's "a blessing to be a part of it."
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