The devastating floods that swept through Texas recently left a trail of heartbreak, especially for families with loved ones at summer camps. Among those anxiously awaiting news was actor Dennis Quaid, whose 17-year-old daughter, Zoe, was working as a camp counselor in the affected region.
Quaid, 74, shared his intense relief on Fox News on July 10. He explained that Zoe was a few miles north of Camp Mystic, in Hill County. "Hill County, Texas, is a magical place," Quaid said. "It’s a cherished memory you carry with you your whole life." Thankfully, Zoe’s camp was safe.
The Guadalupe River overflowed its banks on July 4, causing widespread destruction. This included Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. Reports indicated hundreds of deaths, including many campers and staff from Mystic.
Quaid, who shares Zoe with his ex-wife Kimberly Buffington, described the moment he learned about the disaster. He was going to bed that night and immediately tried to call Zoe. He knew she wasn’t right in the main flood zone, but he couldn’t reach her until the next day. "I hardly slept that night," the Sovereign actor recalled.
A Community Mourns
While Quaid’s family was spared, many others faced unimaginable loss. Quaid, also a father to Thomas (with Buffington) and Jack (with ex-wife Meg Ryan), offered his deep sympathy to Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and his family. The Hunt family lost their 9-year-old cousin, Janie, in the floods.
"My heart goes out to everyone, especially the Hunt family," Quaid expressed. "They are friends of my wife, Laura [Savoie], and mine." He added that he couldn’t imagine how devastating it must be.
Gracie Hunt, Clark’s 26-year-old daughter, posted a tribute to Janie on Instagram on July 7. She wrote that her heart ached for their extended family and friends who lost children. She also mentioned every life lost and every family broken by the Texas floods. Gracie shared a message of faith, saying that following Jesus doesn’t remove pain but means you never face it alone. "Even in the darkest valleys, we cling to the hope that this is not the end of the story," she added. Gracie’s mom, Tavia Hunt, commented, "Jesus, stay close 💔😭🙏🏼."
Support for Victims
In response to the tragedy, Quaid has launched the Kerr County Flood Relief. The initiative aims to support victims and their families.
Quaid urged people to donate. He explained that it only takes five minutes to contribute. Donors can go to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, which is a community foundation at communityfoundation.net. Quaid promised that the money would go directly to where it’s needed most. "We would be so grateful," he said.