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Robin’s interview:
In the early morning hours of July 5, 2025, life changed forever for Robin Bates, a longtime resident of Leander, Texas. The usually quiet Sandy Creek turned into a violent, surging river due to a sudden flash flood. Robin’s home of 22 years—filled with irreplaceable memories—was swept off its foundation and pinned against two pecan trees in the raging waters.
“It’s gut-wrenching. My house of 22 years is literally floated off its foundation,” Robin told The Austin American-Statesman.
Robin was rescued by neighbors, who helped her and her daughter evacuate as the floodwaters rose. They had to use wheelbarrows and wagons to save what little they could—family photos, personal mementos, and necessities—while the flood destroyed almost everything else.
She lost far more than walls and furniture. Among the items destroyed were tools and keepsakes from her late husband—belongings that held deep personal meaning and cannot be replaced.
They had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in January, before he passed away only a few months ago.
As she told reporters, the loss was emotional and overwhelming:
“It’s not just stuff. These were his tools—things I was holding onto to feel close to him,” she said through tears.
Robin’s home is one of many in the Big Sandy Drive area of Leander hit hard by the deadly flood, which took multiple lives and caused widespread damage. Despite the devastation, Robin remained composed and resilient, showing incredible strength during interviews and while comforting others in the community.
She is currently staying in a friend’s RV but faces an uncertain future. Robin did not have flood insurance, as her area had never flooded in 30 years, and floodplain maps didn’t show immediate risk.
Update:
Robin’s home has just been demolished, as seen in the photo I shared. It’s a heartbreaking sight—but also a powerful reminder of how much has been lost in the flood. Though the house is gone, the love and memories that filled it remain.
This is not the end of Robin’s story—it’s the beginning of rebuilding. Your kindness, prayers and support have meant everything during this incredibly difficult time. Thank you for standing with Robin as she starts this new chapter. ❤️
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Why We’re Asking for Help
Robin is starting over from scratch. She needs support with:
• Housing
• Clothing, food, and basic needs
• Replacing items lost in the flood
She’s not one to ask for help—but we are asking on her behalf. Robin has been a neighbor, friend, and quiet pillar in the Leander community. Now she needs us.
• Please note that all money raised is accessed by Robin alone, as she is listed as the beneficiary on this account. If you have any questions or would like to verify anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out directly. Transparency is important, and I’m happy to provide any information you need.
My name is Allison, and I’ve known Robin for several years. I’m organizing this fundraiser on her behalf because she would never ask for help herself—but after watching her lose everything in the Sandy Creek flood, I couldn’t just stand by. Robin’s home of 22 years was swept off its foundation, and nearly all of her belongings were destroyed. She’s strong and resilient, but rebuilding from scratch without flood insurance is more than anyone should have to face alone. I’ve seen firsthand the extent of the damage and the heartbreak, and I hope we can rally together to help her recover.
#SandyCreekFlooding
#BigSandyCreek
#LeanderFlood
#TexasFlood
#SandyCreek
Organizer and beneficiary
Robin Bates
Beneficiary