Spring ISD Superintendent Rodney Watson delivers a $4,000 certificate for furniture from Gallery Furniture during a luncheon for district families affected by Hurricane Harvey.
About 80 Spring ISD families impacted by Hurricane Harvey were treated to a lunch hosted by the Josh Beckett Foundation in partnership with the Spring ISD Education Foundation on Saturday, Dec. 9.
Along with the lunch, attendees who received assistance through the district’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund were surprised with additional relief checks and HEB gift cards. Four lucky attendees also received Gallery Furniture gift certificates.
“We wanted to make sure that the support would continue on because we know there is still a need in our community,” said Spring ISD Superintendent Rodney Watson. “It’s important that, as a community, we continue to support each other not only in words but also in deeds.”
The Josh Beckett Foundation joined with HEB to supply food for the event. The Beckett Foundation – a charitable organization started by former major league baseball pitcher Josh Beckett, together with his wife and fellow Spring High School alum Holly Beckett – has deep ties to the Spring area. The foundation’s president, Jason Oberle, is also a graduate of Spring High School and spoke to Harvey victims during the luncheon.
“It was devastating to see what was happening to our community,” Oberle said. “It was tough to be far away and want to help out.”
Spring ISD Education Foundation President Ken Grays thanked the Becketts and their foundation for its contributions in support of the area. “Thanks for keeping Spring in your heart and doing things the Spring way,” Grays said.
Food for the luncheon included traditional Texas brisket, prepared by Brian Tuttle, also a Spring High School graduate. During the event, every attendee received a $250 check to help with their ongoing recovery needs. In addition, HEB provided a number of gift cards and Jim McIngvale, of Gallery Furniture, donated four $4,000 furniture gift certificates, which were awarded during a drawing held at the event.
For those Spring ISD families and staff members affected by the storm, the continued show of support was welcome. Some reflected emotionally on the continuing task of rebuilding and returning their lives to normal, while others commented on how humbling it can be to accept help in a time of need.
“The hardest part for me throughout this whole process was not being able to help others,” said Natalie Law, a special education teacher at Northgate Crossing Elementary School and a grant recipient. “I’m usually the one helping others, but this time I needed help. I really appreciate Spring ISD going above and beyond to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey.”