Today's post comes from Laura Felux, an associate at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Bastrop, TX, where this month's wildfires had the biggest impact. She asked us to let our readers know that while the community is rebuilding, the best way travelers can help is to come down for a visit – the city is open for business!

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa was very fortunate to escape any immediate damage from the wildfires that affected the Bastrop area two weeks ago. Unfortunately, not all of our associates were so lucky. Twenty two lost their homes and everything they own, and more had direct relatives who lost their homes or sustained significant damage. In total, 1,554 homes were lost in the intensity of the fires and our community is continuing in the recovery process.

The Lost Pines team mobilized right away to assist associates and our community. Associates affected by the fire were immediately invited with their families to stay at the resort free of charge, and various staff members stepped in to take on additional shifts so their friends could focus on the bigger issues at hand. We also housed 128 members of various National Forest Service Task Forces, who were responding to the fires. Accommodations were arranged for displaced residents for a low rate to help them take stock of the situation and determine their next steps.

While our entire staff was mobilizing to serve the community, our Hyatt family was pulling together to help associates in need. Before we knew it, donations were coming in from associates from our neighboring Texas properties, and literally from across the country. Physical trucks arrived from San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Denver, Omaha, and Tampa with shipments from many other cities arriving on a daily basis. It was heartwarming to see the outpouring of support, and it is so appreciated by those who had lost everything.

The display of teamwork seen throughout our resort, our community and our Hyatt family has truly been amazing and we would like to thank everyone who has helped our community recover.