It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Lions Foundation Park gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Liberty Hill, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Always Best Care was there for me when I needed them. I was providing”
“I am so happy with Mr. Steven Coleman services. He has been very professional and”
“We had an excellent experience with Always Best Care Senior Services in Austin. They provided”
“Highly recommend using Always Best Care for all your senior service needs! Super helpful and”
“Kyle and his team are great.”
“I am a past client of this provider My siblings and I engaged Always Best Care”
“Always best care is ALWAYS the BEST care. No pun intended. Means a lot to”
“Kyle and his team rock ,really good communicators. I would refer them to people who”
“Always Best Care provided the perfect service we needed for our mom. Their caregivers”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my”
“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support”
“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff”
“Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with. They were able to provide my mother”
“Owners Lori and Kyle are genuine, salt-of-the-earth folks who are super-dedicated to their clients. ”
“Lori & Kyle were very attentive and responded very quickly to our needs. They visited”
“Always Best came to the rescue when my mother needed immediate caregiver services while in”
“I’ve known Lori for years and have high confidence in her ability to provide care.”
“I had the pleasure of working with Lori Schrayer in a professional setting where she”
“I am a current client of this provider Lori and staff - What a sanity saver”
“Always Best Care of Austin, TX is the only place I trust to care for”
“Always Best Care was there for me when I needed them. I was providing hospice care for my mother in my home. I could not have done it without them. The caregivers are kind and dependable. The company was supportive in every aspect of my mother's care. I cannot thank them enough for their support during this difficult time.”
“I am so happy with Mr. Steven Coleman services. He has been very professional and helpful.”
“We had an excellent experience with Always Best Care Senior Services in Austin. They provided in home care when my mom got out of the hospital and, in parallel, helped us find an assisted living facility. I was calling them from the hospital and we didn't know when my mom would be discharged or what kind of care she would need and Always Best Care was responsive, flexible and provided guidance when we needed it most. This was a stressful time and they gave us peace of mind while providing the best care for my mom. The caregivers were on time, thoughtful and kind. I'd recommend Always Best Care to anyone trying to navigate the complexities of eldercare.”
“Highly recommend using Always Best Care for all your senior service needs! Super helpful and really takes care of patients to make them feel comfortable and safe!”
“Kyle and his team are great.”
“I am a past client of this provider My siblings and I engaged Always Best Care to help care for our mother, initially when she was still able to do a significant amount on her own. Over time she declined and needed different levels of care. At each stage, Lori, Kyle, and each member of the ABC team listened to our needs, and was warm, caring, attentive, patient, punctual, and flexible in accommodating Mom‘s abilities, needs, and wants. Caregivers often went above and beyond, and the teams’ communication with my siblings and me was terrific – – especially helpful since none of us lived in the area. I feel fortunate to have been connected with Lori and Kyle, and I highly recommend the ABC team.”
“Always best care is ALWAYS the BEST care. No pun intended. Means a lot to know my loved ones are in good hands ????”
“Kyle and his team rock ,really good communicators. I would refer them to people who would need this service”
“Always Best Care provided the perfect service we needed for our mom. Their caregivers were on time, professional, and did what mom/we asked of them and more. The owners, Lori & Kyle, listened to our needs and went above and beyond in their help and care. A few times when we had to take mom to the ER, Lori and/ or Kyle came to the house to be sure all of mom's needs were met. At the end of mom's life, their caregivers could not have been more attentive, kind, caring and professional. I would highly recommend ABC Care for your loved one.”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my husband up with very competent companions who were kind and dependable.”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my husband up with very competent companions who were kind and dependable.”
“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support for our clients, their family members and our caring team of staff .”
“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff was so caring to my mother and so nice to my family I highly recommend them to take care of your loved ones. I think there ought to be more than just five stars to give them”
“Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with. They were able to provide my mother with care and a very short notice. Their staff was some of the most caring people that I've ever met. Not only were they wonderful to my mother but also to my family. I would highly recommend using them.”
“Owners Lori and Kyle are genuine, salt-of-the-earth folks who are super-dedicated to their clients. I know I can trust them to make sure our Mom gets the care and help she needs. And caregiver Leah is so very kind -- she's the best!”
“Lori & Kyle were very attentive and responded very quickly to our needs. They visited us in person to introduce the new aide, to make sure instructions were done smoothy. ABC came thru in a very critical time for us. Forever grateful for their compassion & thoughtfulness to our health needs.”
“Always Best came to the rescue when my mother needed immediate caregiver services while in a skilled nursing facility and it continues to provide steady, reliable and helpful care now that she is at home. The owners are very kind and authentic and seem to really care about the people they are helping! My mother adores her caregiver. Would highly recommend.”
“I’ve known Lori for years and have high confidence in her ability to provide care. She’s caring, intelligent, dependable and friendly. She would be an excellent service provider!”
“I had the pleasure of working with Lori Schrayer in a professional setting where she was in a leadership role. I worked with her and her team on multiple projects as a liaison to the County Manager or head of the municipal organization. Lori is consistent in her treatment of peers, communication style, and commitment to her staff. I would be fortunate to work with Lori in the future and would provide her business if given the opportunity as I know they’d be in great hands.”
“I am a current client of this provider Lori and staff - What a sanity saver and great team. From day one we have felt that Mom’s well being is their first priority. We were extremely hesitant to turn over care to someone else. But those concerns vanished immediately— thanks to the team’s communication and compassion. It’s a great comfort knowing the entire staff are there for us and responsive to our need and requests.”
“Always Best Care of Austin, TX is the only place I trust to care for my elder loved ones. It's locally owned by a the kindest couple who treat every patient and employee like part of their family. Their caregivers are compassionate and give me a sense of comfort knowing my loved ones are in good hands when I cannot be with them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting River Ranch County Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Margarita's or visit HighPointe Estate, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Liberty Hill, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Liberty Hill, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Liberty Hill, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Claire Osborn, Emiliano Tahui Go?mez, American-Statesman staff, Austin American-StatesmanSherry Richardson called 911 around 3:30 a.m. Saturday to report that water was coming into her home in Liberty Hill. While the 64-year-old was still on the phone with a dispatcher, the water began creeping up the stairs of the cabin where she lived so she retreated to the second floor, said her daughter Deliah Greenslet.The dispatcher lost contact with Richardson about 15 minutes after the call began, said Greenslet."There was ...
Claire Osborn, Emiliano Tahui Go?mez, American-Statesman staff, Austin American-Statesman
Sherry Richardson called 911 around 3:30 a.m. Saturday to report that water was coming into her home in Liberty Hill. While the 64-year-old was still on the phone with a dispatcher, the water began creeping up the stairs of the cabin where she lived so she retreated to the second floor, said her daughter Deliah Greenslet.
The dispatcher lost contact with Richardson about 15 minutes after the call began, said Greenslet.
"There was 30 feet of water in her house," said Greenslet.
She said he later found out that the whole cabin was swept away with her mother inside of it into a creek that fed into the San Gabriel River. Searchers on Sunday found Richardson's body and the remains of her beloved Yorkie, Omie Mae, about a mile from where her house originally stood, Greenslet said.
"I am heartbroken," said Greenslet.
"Mom was my best friend and confidante and the rock for our family, and I will really miss her," she said. "She loved music, she loved the Beatles and she had a tattoo of some of the Beatles lyrics on her."
Richardson, who was divorced, worked as a human resources administrator at Hope House, a lifetime facility for those suffering from severe mental disabilities. The group operates an 11-acre campus 6 miles from Liberty Hill. Erland Schulze, Hope House’s development director, described Richardson as a “bubbly,” kindhearted and hardworking administrator who had quickly taken to the center’s mission of serving those often disregarded by society.
“We’re gonna miss her,” Schulze said. “She took her job seriously and she loved it.”
Her cabin, on the Hope Hill campus, was on a ledge over the creek. The house where 16 children with severe mental illness lived was uphill, said Schulze.
Anderson, who was from Louisiana, had moved to Round Rock to be close to Greenslet but then relocated to Liberty Hill for her job, Greenslet said. "She wanted to help others. That's who she was."
Anderson grew up around water and always loved it and was glad she lived by a little creek, her daughter said. Anderson had five grandchildren but especially loved to dote on Greenslet's 8-year-old daughter and braid her hair, Greenslet said. She said her mother also loved to bake and was known for her "famous" chicken wings but her greatest legacy to her family was her crochet work, Greenslet said.
"I really want to give my heartfelt thanks to the search and rescue and to the 911 dispatcher who was on the phone with my mom until her final moments; at least she wasn't alone," Greenslet said.
She said she was never alerted about the potential flooding in the area but if she had known she would have asked her mother to spend the night with her. She said she knows there have been budget cuts at the National Weather Service and feels like its being dismantled.
"What can we do as a nation, as a country to prevent this sort of thing from happening in the future?" she said. "Why don't we have warning systems that are better than phones saying there's a flash flood warning?"
Liberty Hill, TexasLiberty Hill has been designated an International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International, making it the first such community in Williamson County and joining just 22 other certified Dark Sky Places in Texas. This designation is a significant milestone for the fast-growing Hill Country city, reflecting a strong community commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the night sky amid ongoing development.Dan Oakley (DarkSky International) noted that the application was a great read and ...
Liberty Hill, Texas
Liberty Hill has been designated an International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International, making it the first such community in Williamson County and joining just 22 other certified Dark Sky Places in Texas. This designation is a significant milestone for the fast-growing Hill Country city, reflecting a strong community commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the night sky amid ongoing development.
Dan Oakley (DarkSky International) noted that the application was a great read and reflected the commitment of the community to improve their lighting and join others in the area. It should inspire other places to join the program.
Located 33 miles northwest of Austin, Liberty Hill sits between the forks of the San Gabriel River and is surrounded by scenic hills, historic architecture, and a vibrant small-town culture. With a population now exceeding 13,700, the city continues to attract new families drawn to its schools, parks, and welcoming spirit. Founded in the mid-1800s, Liberty Hill has worked to balance its rapid growth with efforts to preserve its historic charm—and now, its night skies.
The effort to become a Dark Sky Community began in 2020, when concerned citizens formed the Liberty Hill Save Our Stars volunteer group during COVID-19 lockdowns. The group partnered closely with the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission to draft an Outdoor Lighting Ordinance, which was adopted in 2022. Since then, the City has inventoried more than 1,100 lights, initiated lighting retrofits across City Hall, the Stubblefield Building, and public parks, and committed to completing all city retrofits, including streetlights maintained by Pedernales Electric Coop, by August 2027.
To support compliance, the City will retrofit public facilities, enforce lighting requirements for new builds, support existing businesses during the transition, and increase education and awareness. In parallel, Save Our Stars has conducted night lighting audits, hosted annual public star parties in collaboration with the Austin Astronomical Society, designed awareness materials, staffed booths at the Whimsy & Wonder Festival and LH Market, and launched the “Night Sky Friendly Business” program to recognize responsible lighting in the community.
“Liberty Hill’s commitment to preserving the night sky is a shining example of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose and passion,” said Cindy Luongo Cassidy, Board President of DarkSky Texas. “This designation is more than a title—it’s a reflection of Liberty Hill’s regional leadership and a powerful reminder that protecting our skies protects our quality of life. Congratulations to everyone involved in this incredible achievement.”
“Growing up in Liberty Hill, I loved the night skies with the stars and fireflies,” said Dr. Diane Williams, Liberty Hill City Councilmember and former Planning & Zoning Commissioner. “As the city grew, so did the light pollution that threatened to take that away. I am very thankful to the Save Our Stars volunteer group and the city leaders who initiated the effort for the lighting ordinance. I am really proud and excited that our city has reached this major milestone.”
“Becoming the first Dark Sky city in Williamson County is a proud moment for Liberty Hill and a shining example of what grassroots action can accomplish,” said Donna Leonard, Founder of Liberty Hill Save Our Stars. “For over four years, the volunteers of Liberty Hill Save Our Stars have worked tirelessly to protect our night skies—not just for ourselves, but for future generations. In Texas, the stars at night are supposed to be big and bright. This designation honors that heritage and reflects our community’s deep commitment to preserving what makes our Hill Country home so special.”
Looking ahead, Liberty Hill’s Dark Sky Committee has several initiatives in development. These include partnering with other aspiring Dark Sky cities to host workshops, launching a Tri-County Star Party at River Ranch County Park, and expanding outreach through local homeowners’ associations to promote the Five Principles of Responsible Lighting. Ongoing sky darkness monitoring will ensure continued compliance and data tracking for the city’s night skies.
About the International Dark Sky Places Program:
Founded in 2001, the International Dark Sky Places Program is a non-regulatory and voluntary program encouraging communities, parks, and protected areas worldwide to preserve and protect dark sites through effective lighting policies, environmentally responsible outdoor lighting, and public education. When used indiscriminately, artificial light can disrupt ecosystems, impact human health, waste money and energy, contribute to climate change, and block our view and connection to the universe. Liberty Hill now joins more than 230 Places that have demonstrated robust community support for dark sky advocacy and strive to protect the night from light pollution. Learn more by visiting https://darksky.org/what-we-do/international-dark-sky-places.
About DarkSky International:
The mission of DarkSky is to preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Learn more at darksky.org.
Contacts
Media ContactKatie Amsler, Director of Community Engagement & Communications(512) 417-8448[email protected]
DarkSky InternationalAmber Harrison, Dark Sky Places Program Manager+1 (520) 347-6363[email protected]
Roughly 150 H-E-B staff from across the state volunteered to help families clear debris in Liberty Hill on Friday.LIBERTY HILL, Texas — Survivors of the deadly floods that swept across Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend are still coming to terms with the loss, which is why the community is doing their part to step in....
Roughly 150 H-E-B staff from across the state volunteered to help families clear debris in Liberty Hill on Friday.
LIBERTY HILL, Texas — Survivors of the deadly floods that swept across Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend are still coming to terms with the loss, which is why the community is doing their part to step in.
On Friday, roughly 150 H-E-B staff from all over Texas volunteered to clear out debris from four homes in Liberty Hill. At a home off East Bear Creek Road, there were 50 volunteers trudging through a wooded area picking up lost items, hauling wagons filled with debris and loading it into trucks to throw away.
"This is one of the ways that we can show up for them," said H-E-B Senior Public Affairs Specialist Audrey Garcia, who was also at the home helping.
At the property, however, was also the Hawks family.
They were sifting through the woods in search of any items they may have lost. Jay Hawks said they live a street over and during the floods, their home broke apart and everything inside got swept away.
Some photos were recovered, but the memory of the day the floodwaters broke through remains.
"When everyone says it happens in a minute, it is literally a minute," said Hawks.
Their son, Ethan, was at a friend's house at the time, but Hawks said once the flood waters were creeping into the house, he and his wife had to make a quick decision to get out immediately.
Hawks got emotional describing the moment his wife went under the water and he pulled her up. The two clung to a tree for an unknown amount of time before a rescue boat spotted them.
"We're here, that's all that matters," said Hawks. "When people say stuff doesn't matter, it doesn't matter at all."
Their son said he got the call from his parents when they were in the back of ambulance heading to a shelter. He said he was told about the house, cars and animals being gone.
However, Ethan said he's grateful his parents were saved.
"The two most important things made it out of the house," he said.
A GoFundMe was created to help the Hawks get back on their feet, which can be found at this link.
Garcia said any items that are found are being placed in a tote bag and will be returned to the family. She added that H-E-B will continue reassessing needs as the next week pans out.
LIBERTY HILL, Texas - A Williamson County nonprofit is recovering after it was hit hard by the deadly and devastating flooding during the July 4th weekend.What they're saying:Developmental director Erland Shultze shared the story with FOX 7 Austin's Jessica Rivera."Well, around 3:30 a.m. Saturday morning [July 5], one of our staff members who lives on the property in another home adjacent to the home...
LIBERTY HILL, Texas - A Williamson County nonprofit is recovering after it was hit hard by the deadly and devastating flooding during the July 4th weekend.
What they're saying:
Developmental director Erland Shultze shared the story with FOX 7 Austin's Jessica Rivera.
"Well, around 3:30 a.m. Saturday morning [July 5], one of our staff members who lives on the property in another home adjacent to the home where our children stay…we have 16 younger kids in this home, which is one of the five homes that we have here at Hope House," he said. "And she was awoken at that time by water in her house. And we got the call from her. And of course, our staff here is 24/7, so they were awake. And she was not able to make it out of the house. The water swept our house away, and we lost Sherry."
(Hope House)
Sherry Richardson was Hope House's HR coordinator and was swept away in the floods, according to the nonprofit. Shultze says her loss was such a shock and that she loved the kids at Hope House.
Shultze added that emergency services were able to evacuate all 16 of the children from the home, which sustained "quite a bit of water and mud damage".
Hundreds of volunteers have come out this week to help the nonprofit clean it up and get it ready for the kids' return; they are currently living in four other homes operated by Hope House.
You can follow their clean-up journey and learn how you can help by going to their Facebook page.
What we know:
Hope House offers family-focused group homes for disabled children and adults, providing them with lifelong care.
According to the nonprofit's website, its first official home was built in Liberty Hill in 1976.
For more information about Hope House and to donate to their rebuilding effort, click here.
What you can do:
Hope House is also inviting everyone to write a note, a few kind words, letter of encouragement, or even make a piece of art to help lift their staff's spirits during the recovery effort and after the loss of one of their own.
These messages will be shared throughout the nonprofit's homes and halls as daily reminders that they are seen, supported, and not alone, says the nonprofit.
Those in Liberty Hill can create and leave their notes at the following small businesses:
Notes can also be mailed to Hope House at PO Box 457, Liberty Hill TX 78642.
By the numbers:
The death toll from the July 4th weekend flooding in Central Texas sits at 120.
Across the state, more than 170 people are considered missing.
At least 96 deaths, including 36 children, have been confirmed in Kerr County alone. About 161 people in Kerr County are now known to be missing, including at least five girls and a counselor from Camp Mystic.
In Travis County, there were at least seven deaths and also significant damage to infrastructure.
Kendall County has reported eight deaths.
Burnet County has at least five deaths confirmed. A Marble Falls volunteer fire chief is still missing.
Williamson County reports three deaths and Tom Green County has one death confirmed.
Officials say as for missing people, there is one in Burnet and 10 in Travis County.
The Source: Information in this report comes from Hope House's website and social media, an interview by FOX 7 Austin's Jessica Rivera, and previous reporting by FOX 7 Austin.
In the aftermath of devastating flooding from the July 4 weekend, resources are available but jurisdictional confusion has made it hard for some to find.The GistPeople in Travis County, which includes the heavily-damaged Sandy Creek and Lago Vista neighborhoods, can call the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 for help with temporar...
In the aftermath of devastating flooding from the July 4 weekend, resources are available but jurisdictional confusion has made it hard for some to find.
The Gist
People in Travis County, which includes the heavily-damaged Sandy Creek and Lago Vista neighborhoods, can call the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 for help with temporary shelter, financial assistance, emotional support and locating missing loved ones.
More information on Travis County resources in response to the disaster can be found here.
People in Williamson County, which includes part of the Rio Ancho neighborhood close to Liberty Hill, who have non-emergency needs, can also contact the Red Cross.
More information on Williamson County resources in the aftermath of the flooding can be found here.
Zooming in
Big Sandy Drive, which goes into the Sandy Creek subdivision, begins with a bridge crossing the Big Sandy Creek from Round Mountain Road. Heavy rainfall from the weekend resulted in water rising over the bridge, slamming it with debris and bringing enough force to slide the top layers of pavement off the road, resulting in the one way in or out of the subdivision closing to vehicles.
About a third of a mile up Round Mountain Road from Big Sandy Drive, volunteers have set up a staging area at Round Mountain Baptist Church where people affected by the disaster can go for food, water, clothing and more.
A resource center will open at noon July 10 at Danielson Middle School in Leander, according to a July 9 Travis County press release. The school is located at 1061 Collaborative Way. The center will offer showers, meals, food boxes, cleaning supplies, health screenings and more, and transportation to and from the center will be available at Round Mountain Baptist Church.
Close to Liberty Hill, homes in the Rio Ancho neighborhood were devastated by flood water when the Southfork San Gabriel River rose and entered the structures over the weekend.
The Rio Ancho homeowners association filled the clubhouse at the back of the neighborhood with water, food and hygiene kits, Celebration Church Pastor Ken DeHart said.
DeHart also noted that Operation Liberty Hill, a thrift store and food pantry, is set up and distributing supplies at 1401 US 183.
What else?
In Kerr County, people can get financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, according to a press release from Gov. Greg Abbott. People in other counties, including Travis and Williamson, can apply as well, as more counties could become eligible as damage is assessed.
People living outside a city’s limits may still have a city address while not being included in city services. People in those areas may need to turn to their county for assistance.
“It gets very complicated and I know that that’s really frustrating for our residents, because these are our neighbors,” Leander Mayor Christine DeLisle said.
People can input their zip code on the Texas Association of Counties website to find out what county they are in.
What they’re saying
“We know this is an incredibly difficult and emotional time for so many in our community,” Travis County Judge Andy Brown said in the release.
“Our top priority remains the people impacted by this disaster, especially those still missing and their loved ones. Search, rescue, and response efforts are actively ongoing, and we will not stop until every effort has been made to find those unaccounted for.”
“At the same time, we’re working as quickly and safely as possible to restore access, provide support, and help our community begin to recover and heal. Travis County teams, alongside our state partners, are on the ground assessing needs, clearing debris and making sure residents are connected with the help they need,” Brown said.
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