3 year old Eric poses for the camera.

“You need to get home quickly. It looks like a tornado passed through your home.”

Those were the words that jolted Lily and Chris Aguilar into action on February 14—a day that would change everything for their young family. While out shopping in Southeast Houston with their 3‑year‑old son, Eric, Lily’s phone buzzed with an alert from their Ring doorbell. On the screen, firefighters were going door‑to‑door, urgently knocking not only on their apartment but on their neighbors’ as well.

Something was wrong.
Very wrong.

Lily immediately called her mother to check on their home. Moments later came the news no family ever expects to hear: a tornado had torn through their apartment building and several others nearby.

The Aguilars raced back, fearing what they might find. When they arrived, the reality was devastating.

“The roof was completely gone,” Lily recalled. “And when we went inside, it looked like it was raining in our apartment. There were huge puddles of water everywhere.”

That night, they sent little Eric to stay safely with Lily’s mother while they began the heartbreaking task of cleaning what they could from the wreckage of their home.

By the next morning, Red Cross teams were already on-site. Community Disaster Program Manager Kayla Cochrane, along with dedicated workers and volunteers, moved through the complex—checking on families, assessing damage, and offering comfort and resources. A shelter had opened for those suddenly without a safe place to stay.

“I am so grateful for Kayla from the Red Cross,” Lily shared. “She helped calm my worries about going to the shelter and explained what our next steps could be. The Red Cross has been such a blessing. If it wasn’t for them, I don’t know what we would do.”

Through Red Cross intake workers, Lily and Chris received the support they needed and are now preparing to move into a new, safe apartment where they can begin rebuilding their lives.

“This experience has changed me so much,” Lily said. “Once we get settled again, I would love to volunteer with the Red Cross. I had no idea everything they do. After this, I’ve seen firsthand the hope they bring, and I want to be part of that.”

Families like the Aguilars are not alone—and you can help ensure they never have to face disaster alone.
To volunteer or donate, visit redcross.org.

Story By: Joseph Ruiz