ROCKPORT, Texas -- Some people in Rockport are finding comfort from a group of visitors hoping to help those hit hardest by Harvey.

The visitors didn't bring any food or water. But it is their knowledge of protecting the past that's refueling hopes for the future. 

"During the hurricane we lost most of our belongings," said Danielle Sowell.

Sowell’s entire life sits in piles along her front yard and her home is gutted.

"I have three kids. All of their baby pictures on the wall. My dad passed away January but the pictures of him and his grandkids all I have left. I was just going to throw them all away," she said. 

Her recent visit to this FEMA tent in Rockport brought her the only sense of hope she's found in weeks 

"Were just down here showing people you can salvage material objects," said Emily Pearce Seigerman of the Smithsonian. 

Museum specialists from the Smithsonian teamed up with FEMA and 42 other federal agencies and national service organizations to help restore what no hardware store can replace. 

"When we came in we got our first view of the scope of Devastation and it's just heartbreaking. We know how much heirlooms and photographs can mean to people,” said Carrie Feldman of the Smithsonian. 

For Carrie Feldman, the effort is personal. 

"I had a flood in my house. The thing I regret to this day is throwing out my grandmas sewing basket. I just didn't have the skill set at the time to save it,” said Feldman.

The team is also headed to FEMA size in Robstown and Victoria this week. They've also developed a phone called emergency response and salvage wheel that's available to those who can't get to them In Rockport.