VICTORIA, Texas — A quilt shop in Victoria, My Fabric Friends, has launched a major relief effort, donating 1,000 handmade quilts to families impacted by the devastating Fourth of July floods in Texas Hill Country.
Shop owner Connie Kortz initiated the project, transforming thousands of “poppy blocks” into full-sized quilts under the banner Hugs From Texas.
Kortz began the effort after witnessing the flood’s destruction, aiming to offer more than just warmth. “Each quilt feels like a hug,” she explained. “It’s everybody’s arms from the whole country, the whole world basically telling them that.”
Quilters around the globe have responded with overwhelming support. Volunteers from Canada, Guam, Ecuador, Australia, and the United Kingdom sent over 12,000 poppy blocks—enough to create more than 300 additional quilts. Each finished quilt requires 35 blocks.
The initiative has already produced 700 quilts, with 350 packed and ready for delivery. The first major distribution will reach flood-hit towns including San Saba, Cedar Creek, Ingram, and Comfort on September 20. Kortz and her team departed from Victoria on Friday to make the delivery.
Flood survivors have expressed deep appreciation for the quilts. One recipient described the gift as a milestone moment: “This is the first thing that is mine.”
Kortz launched Hugs From Texas as an extension of a previous project, HUGS from Texas – Helping U Get Stronger. That campaign sent 476 quilts to families in North Carolina recovering from Hurricane Helene in 2024.
The effort thrives through grassroots support. Donors have provided quilt fabric, supplies, and financial backing through the group’s GoFundMe page and website, myfabricfriends.com. Local and international volunteers continue to contribute materials, helping the team reach its goal of 1,000 quilts.
With each stitch, Kortz and her global network of quilters offer hope, healing, and a personal connection to those rebuilding their lives.