Texas restaurant serves local favorites to first responders after devastating floods

The devastating floods in Kerrville, Texas have brought out the best in the community, with local business owners like Crystal Smith and her husband at Billy Gene’s stepping up to serve those who are serving others. As first responders work around the clock to help their community recover from the destruction, the Smiths have been cooking up delicious Hill Country favorites to keep them fueled and happy.

Crystal Smith explained that they knew the first responders would be working tirelessly, so they wanted to do their part to help. The response from the first responders has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the home-cooked meals provided by Billy Gene’s. Smith shared that they have received hugs and thanks from those who have come in for a meal, but she believes that it is they who should be thankful for the opportunity to give back.

Billy Gene’s has been a local favorite for nearly 30 years, known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. The Smiths took over the restaurant from Crystal’s in-laws a decade ago, and it has consistently been voted the Best All-Around Food in Kerrville for the last 10 years. The community support for both each other and the first responders is a testament to the spirit of Texas, according to Smith.

Janyce Karcher, a Kerrville native, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the resilience and unity of the tight-knit community. Despite the devastation caused by the floods, she believes that Kerrville will come out stronger on the other side. She described the floods as worse than anything the community has experienced in the past, but she remains hopeful that they will overcome this challenge together.

While Billy Gene’s itself was not damaged in the flood, one staff member lost everything. The restaurant is providing support by offering the employee and her husband a place to stay and covering their food expenses. Smith showed Fox News Digital the debris behind the restaurant, including items that were not there before the flood, indicating the extent of the damage caused.

As the community works to recover and rebuild, the support and generosity shown by businesses like Billy Gene’s serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the people of Kerrville. The spirit of Texas shines through in times of adversity, as neighbors come together to help each other and those who are working tirelessly to restore the community.