AUSTIN, Texas—The Tapestry Foundation and Buena Vista Foundation have joined efforts to each provide a $20,000 challenge grant for a total of a $40,000 contribution to The Austin Project to provide direct assistance for families with children enrolled in the Austin Independent School District, as well as for AISD employees who were also displaced by the storms that flooded neighborhoods in Southeast Austin Oct. 31. 

At this time, AISD has identified 360 students and 25 AISD staff members who lost their homes or who have been temporarily displaced due to extensive flood damage.

“We would like to thank Superintendent Meria Carstarphen for making us aware of the significant impact the flooding has had on AISD students, families and staff. We appreciate the opportunity to help and encourage members of the Austin community to join us by making a financial contribution,” said Betsy Abell of the Buena Vista Foundation and Carmel Borders of the Tapestry Foundation in a joint statement.

The Austin Project, in collaboration with AISD, is asking the community to help raise $40,000 by Friday to meet the challenge and provide support for those who are displaced.  

“We are grateful to the Tapestry and Buena Vista foundations for their assistance in this time of need for AISD students, their families and district employees,” Meria Carstarphen, AISD superintendent, said. “We call on the community to help match their generous donations and to ensure our families are taken care of during this difficult time.”

The district has been informed that many AISD families may need to find alternative housing by Friday, which has accelerated the goal of helping 100 percent of families in need.

“The Austin Project is thankful for the support of AISD and Dr. Carstarphen to meet the immediate needs of children and families impacted by this disaster,” said Donna Hagey, executive director for The Austin Project, a local nonprofit organization.   

The Austin Project is an active partner with AISD and the City of Austin in the disaster relief efforts and manages a school-based Family Resource Center, at Mendez Middle School in the heart of several communities impacted by the flood. TAP’s staff is working closely with families and AISD staff to provide direct assistance.

To make a contribution, please visit The Austin Project’s Get Involved section at http://theaustinproject.org/get-involved/donate and include “Disaster Relief Fund” as the purpose.

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The Austin Project (TAP) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. TAP has dedicated 22 years to working with community organizations, agencies, neighborhoods, and individuals to nurture strength-based, efficient service delivery systems that promote parent and family engagement in schools and neighborhoods. TAP’s initiatives promote healthy lifestyles, provide access to basic needs, and create opportunities for families to take on leadership roles and make a difference in their own communities.