KPUB’s lineman honored for their work helping restore power to hurricane-stricken region

Kerrville Public Utility Board lineman Justin Martinez received a unique token of appreciation Thursday — a handmade quilt from The Giver Connection, a Hill Country nonprofit dedicated to spreading comfort through handmade gifts.

Martinez was selected in a random drawing among eight KPUB linemen who volunteered for a three-week mutual aid mission in 2024, restoring power in Georgia and Florida after Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the region.

The crew initially deployed to Moultrie, Georgia, on Sept. 25, 2024, ahead of Hurricane Helene. After completing work there, they were nearly back to Texas when they received an urgent call for help in Lakeland, Florida, where Hurricane Milton had caused widespread outages. Without hesitation, the crew turned around — just 30 miles from the Texas border — and continued their mission.

“Our linemen put their lives on the line to help restore power in the aftermath of natural disasters, often working in incredibly challenging conditions,” said Larry Lee, KPUB general foreman. “This heartfelt gift from The Giver Connection is a beautiful reminder that their efforts do not go unnoticed.”

The Giver Connection, a local charity, donates quilts to cancer patients, community heroes and nonprofit organizations. Each quilt is individually crafted as a gesture of support.

KPUB has responded to 13 mutual aid requests through the American Public Power Association’s Mutual Aid Network.

The presentation took place in the KPUB lobby, with representatives from The Giver Connection and KPUB in attendance.