A coalition of nonprofits helps Texans deal with the aftermath of Winter Strom Uri.

In February, Winter Storm Uri plunged Texas into frigid temperatures causing much of its power grid to collapse, followed by its water system. This unexpected trifecta left tens of millions without power or water for days and even weeks. Amongst the tragedy and devastation millions faced, the state saw heroes and volunteers emerge from within its borders and all over the country.

Bethenny Frankel’s #BStrong Initiative, along with The Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and the NCS Group (a nationwide freight-forwarding company), was just one partnership that immediately got to work planning aid for Texas.

As a first responder to global disasters, GEM and #BStrong’s partnership brought six trucks to various Texas cities such as Denton, Austin, Eagle Pass, Houston, and to the Carrizo/Comecrudo Tribes of Texas immediately after the storm. Each truck contained over $120K worth of supplies and food, totaling over $800K in aid to various Texas cities.

NCS trucks also delivered over $120K worth of supplies to Kids’ Meals Houston, a daily home delivery meal program for more than 3,000 preschool-aged children living in severe poverty. For the first time in the nonprofit’s history, they were without sufficient food, volunteers, staff and facilities to provide meals to children in need.

GEM, along with Frankel’s #BStrong Initiative, allowed Kids’ Meals to continue its track record of success. For 14 years, the nonprofit has been a front-line responder in reaching deeply into poverty-stricken neighborhoods to provide children relief from severe food insecurity and food deserts.

While no one can be certain when or where the next natural disaster may occur, there is comfort in knowing that spirited partnerships like this one will be there to help if needed.

Cover photo courtesy NCS Group

Gabi De la Rosa lives in Houston with her husband and three children. Visit her on Instagram @gabioftheroses_htx