T-Mobile Steps Up with $500,000 Donation and On-the-Ground Support for Kerr County Flood Relief Efforts
In response to the catastrophic flash flooding that has wreaked havoc across Kerr County and surrounding Central Texas communities, T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS) is stepping up to support recovery efforts with a substantial financial contribution and on-the-ground assistance. The company has pledged a $500,000 donation to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, which is dedicated to funding local organizations providing rescue, relief, and recovery services in hard-hit areas such as Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and Comfort.
This donation underscores T-Mobile’s commitment to aiding communities in their time of need. To further amplify its impact, the company is also offering a 2:1 employee match program for contributions made by its employees to the Relief Fund through July 23. This initiative triples the value of employee donations, ensuring even greater support for those affected by the disaster.
A Unified Effort to Support Central Texas Communities
“T-Mobile is doing what we can to show up for our neighbors in Central Texas — keeping those who have been impacted by these devastating floods connected, aiding our heroic first responders, and offering support on the ground through our teams and local organizations,” said Jon Freier, President of T-Mobile’s Consumer Group. “We’re incredibly grateful to our teams and partners and continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Texans who are dealing with the unimaginable.”
The catastrophic flooding has left thousands of residents displaced, damaged critical infrastructure, and strained local resources. In the face of this crisis, T-Mobile’s efforts extend beyond financial contributions. The company has mobilized its teams to provide essential services and support directly to the affected communities.
On-the-Ground Support and Enhanced Connectivity
Since Saturday, July 5, T-Mobile’s teams have been actively deployed in the region, setting up essential resources at T-Mobile stores and other local locations. These include Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations, and supplies for both community members and first responders. By ensuring connectivity and access to power, T-Mobile is helping individuals stay in touch with loved ones and enabling emergency personnel to coordinate their efforts effectively.
While T-Mobile’s network remains fully operational in the region, the company has gone a step further by deploying specialized assets to enhance coverage for first responders. One key resource is a Satellite Cell on Light Truck (SatCOLT) stationed at the Unified Command Center in Kerrville. This mobile unit provides reliable communication capabilities in areas where traditional infrastructure may be compromised, ensuring that emergency teams can operate without interruption.
Additionally, T-Mobile has partnered with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to support search-and-rescue operations. The company is collaborating with local agencies on drone missions to capture aerial imagery for damage assessment, a critical step in planning and executing recovery efforts. These drones rely on T-Mobile’s enhanced connectivity to transmit real-time data, enabling faster and more informed decision-making.
Temporary Activation of T-Satellite with Starlink Service
Recognizing the importance of communication during emergencies, T-Mobile took swift action to ensure that residents in the most affected areas could stay connected. Starting Sunday, July 6, the company temporarily activated its T-Satellite with Starlink service for T-Mobile customers across Kerr, Kendall, Llano, Travis, and Comal counties. This service allows users to send basic SMS messages, access text-to-911 functionality, and receive emergency alerts, even in areas with limited or no cellular coverage.
The activation of T-Satellite demonstrates T-Mobile’s innovative approach to addressing connectivity challenges during natural disasters. By leveraging satellite technology, the company is bridging gaps in communication and ensuring that vital information reaches those who need it most.
Supporting Local Organizations and Long-Term Recovery
The $500,000 donation to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund will play a pivotal role in supporting local organizations on the front lines of the recovery effort. These organizations are working tirelessly to provide immediate relief, including food, shelter, and medical care, while also laying the groundwork for long-term rebuilding and resilience.
By channeling funds through the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, T-Mobile is ensuring that resources are distributed efficiently and effectively to trusted entities with deep roots in the community. This approach not only maximizes the impact of the donation but also respects the unique needs and priorities of the affected regions.
Standing Shoulder-to-Shoulder with Texans
As Central Texas continues to grapple with the aftermath of the flooding, T-Mobile’s multifaceted response reflects its dedication to being more than just a telecommunications provider. From financial contributions and employee engagement to on-the-ground support and technological innovation, the company is demonstrating what it means to be a true partner in times of crisis.
The devastating floods have tested the resilience of Kerr County and its surrounding communities, but the outpouring of support from organizations like T-Mobile serves as a reminder of the strength and solidarity that define Texas. With continued collaboration between government agencies, private companies, and local organizations, there is hope for a brighter future as these communities rebuild and recover.
About T-Mobile
T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile.
