Presence matters, whether you show up to provide aid in a disaster zone, send your love and emotional support, or donate financially, you make an impact. 

We may have watched Hurricane Harvey and the horrific flood from the comfort of our homes, located throughout the U.S., however, we have been present throughout the ordeal by closely following the journey of the Olivas family, our Communication Specialist’s sister’s family, who is in the middle of the flooding of southeastern Texas.

The Associated Press reported recently that fewer than 20 percent of Houston, TX homeowners have flood insurance — less than five years ago, despite the city’s rapid population growth.They can’t afford it, they thought their current home insurance was enough, or, as in the Olivas family’s situation, their flood insurance isn’t covering any of the damage that was done, leaving their home unlivable. They are left to rebuild on their own finances and perhaps what Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may be able to contribute. 

The Olivas family was able to enter their property over the weekend, accessing the damage and beginning the cleanup process. They were not alone.  Alvin Community College in Alvin, Texas sent members of their softball and baseball teams over to help out.

There were 50+ volunteers at their home and this is happening each day all around the disaster area. Those who are flooded out and those are not, are all helping their neighbors, their churches, their businesses and complete strangers. They are showing up, working shoulder-to-shoulder, offering love, support, and doing the dirty work that is rebuilding southeastern Texas. The Olivas’ friends and family near and afar are showing up for them too with their presence, providing support, prayers, and donations.  

At Wink, we are a close-knit family and we are present for each other. Wink contributed funds directly to the Olivas family, thus alleviating some of the financial trouble that they are currently navigating through. 

Our entire nation has wholeheartedly contributed to the aid and relief efforts of Hurricane Harvey victims. Wink has also contributed a donation to the Preemptive Love Coalition who are using 100% of donated funds to help evacuate Houston residents and partnering with area churches to provide free cleanup supplies. We have read and posted numerous stories of our industry stepping up with donations, employee matches, volunteering themselves, their very own boats, and opening up their homes.

Presence matters.

Members of the Olivas family safely evacuating their home from the flooding of Chocolate Bayou during Hurricane Harvey.