Center Point Volunteer Fire Department receives largest-ever Cash for Kindness award after heroic flood response
Center Point, TX — Center Point Volunteer Fire Department receives largest-ever Cash for Kindness award after heroic flood response
In the middle of catastrophe, they were a constant.
When deadly floodwaters swallowed homes, shredded trees, and washed away lives across the Hill Country, it was the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department that showed up—first, fast, and fearlessly.
They didn’t ask for help.
They became it.
Now, they’re the ones being recognized.
In a powerful Cash for Kindness surprise, FOX SA and Air & Plumbing Today honored the all-volunteer department with $4,000—the largest award in the program’s history.
“We all know Cash for Kindness is about sacrifice, selflessness”
In the words of FOX SA’s Ryan Wolf:
“When it comes to the catastrophic flooding in the Hill Country, the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department stepped up in an enormous way They suffered some losses too. A lot of their equipment was destroyed. So we really wanted to give back—with a Cash for Kindness surprise you all get to unfold right now.”
Before the cameras rolled, a mountain of donated supplies—Gatorade, protein snacks, energy drinks—was loaded up by Air & Plumbing Today. The mission: support the firefighters supporting everyone else.
When Ryan arrived at the station, he was greeted by Tye Turman, president and chaplain of the department. It was Turman who revealed just how critical their efforts had been.
“At any point in time, we’ve had between 24,000 to 26,000 volunteers come through this station to help with recovery,” he said.
“That’s about 500 to 1,500 people per day.”
From neck-deep dive team missions in the mud
To the dramatic rescue of a woman found clinging to a tree, carried nearly 20 miles by the river’s current
This small, rural department has delivered big-time heroism, again and again.
But their firehouse didn’t escape the storm.
Seven feet of water tore through it—destroying gear, leaving 8 to 10 inches of mud and silt, and washing away supplies.
One firefighter’s gear bag was found miles away in Comfort returned only because a kind neighbor recognized the department's logo and brought it back, freshly cleaned.
“Just hearing the stories it’s awe inspiring.”
That’s what inspired Cash for Kindness to step in with a major reward.
After presenting $1,000 in cash, Ryan revealed it wasn’t over.
Manny Mallen, owner of Air & Plumbing Today and proud partner of the program, stepped forward to increase the reward by another $3,000.
“It’s hard to imagine what they’ve been through. The equipment damage alone puts a dent in future operations,” Mallen said.
“So what we wanted to do is add another $3,000.”
In total: $4,000—a record-breaking gesture of gratitude.
“These funds will go to good use.”
The department’s volunteers gathered for a group photo, still stunned by the support. Their response was simple—but deeply felt.
“We so appreciate you all being here for us and supporting us in this way,” Turman said.
“These funds will go to very good use here at our station to help us rebuild.”
FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF CENTER POINT VFD
SATURDAY, AUGUST 2ND: There will be a BBQ fundraiser to support the firehouse.
It scheduled to take place at Heritage Park in Center Point. It starts at 11am. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to Center Point VFD, according to event organizers. There will also be live entertainment.