Responsiveness

The Meadows Foundation has always prioritized responsiveness in our grantmaking because Texas is no stranger to crisis. From natural disasters and public health emergencies to economic shocks and community-specific challenges, our state continues to face circumstances that demand immediate attention and strategic action. In response, the Foundation has taken purposeful steps to ensure our grantmaking remains nimble, targeted, and informed by the most urgent needs on the ground.

Our responsive grantmaking has addressed a range of crises and, in each case, our approach has been guided by listening to local leaders, removing barriers to funding, and acting quickly so that help gets to where it’s needed most.

 The Smokehouse Creek fire in 2024 began in the Texas Panhandle and grew to become the largest wildfire in the state’s history.

Texans on Mission (TXM) quickly deployed teams to assess and assist impacted communities. Among the first on the ground, they mobilized their command center with laundry and shower units, fire recovery units, and chainsaw crews. Their volunteers actively provided meals to those affected and to the first responders on the scene, as well as hygiene support for displaced individuals, and undertook essential cleanup efforts.

The situation was critical, with over 1 million acres already burned and only 44% of the fire contained. To continue meeting these needs, TXM needed to stay on the ground. Funding was urgently needed to sustain these efforts and that’s where the Foundation saw an opportunity to help. We supported them with $50,000 to help cover the cost of meals for the community and volunteer teams, fuel for equipment, and more immediate needs. This funding provided TXM with assistance in continuing to aid communities affected by the wildfire.

Being responsive isn’t just about speed, but also intention. It means showing up with resources, and with trust in the organizations doing the hard work every day.

As we look forward, responsiveness will remain fundamental to our work. We are proud to stand alongside resilient communities across Texas and remain committed to partnering with them.