The Sanford Community Center has a long history in Palacios, Texas. Originally built as a schoolhouse, it was the city’s only Black school from 1939 until integration took place in 1963. Following integration, the building was closed and deteriorated over the years until it was purchased in 2011 by the Palacios Community Coalition, a non-profit organization, with the intention of restoring the property and bringing it to life. Since its restoration, it has served as an active community gathering place for residents of all ages.
But when Hurricane Beryl made landfall in southeast Texas earlier this summer, Sanford Community Center was hit hard. The trees surrounding the community center—which were already at-risk—received even further damage, and debris strewn across the grounds made the property unsafe for use. To clean up the property, “It would have taken months and more money to pay for people to help us than we have,” said Robin Lewis, Executive Director at Sanford CC.
To address the damage, IOCC’s emergency response team arrived at the scene, made an assessment, and began a multi-day clean-up effort to remove the debris and dead trees. IOCC, along with partner Inspiritus and a team of 4 volunteers, were able to restore the grounds to good condition, ensuring continued use of the community center.
“We could not have done the work without your help,” said Mrs. Lewis, “words are just not enough to express our appreciation for your help. As we look at all that you do around the world, we are humbled by the aid and service that you provide to people.”
