Rebuilding Hope in the Hill Country Weekly Update – March 23, 2026
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Your support in action this week: |
In the wake of the July 4 floods, neighbors across the Hill Country continue to show up for one another. Here’s a quick look at the progress your support is making possible. - Housing Stability
Access to stable shelter continues to improve. Currently, 157 households (342 individuals) remain in temporary housing as permanent solutions move forward.
No change from last week - Rebuilding & Construction
Rebuilding efforts continue to accelerate across the county.
– 22 homes have now been fully reconstructed (+1)
– 54 homes are actively under construction (+1)
– 23 modular and RV homes have been repaired or replaced (+9) -
Pathways to Homeownership
– 16 families have now received down payment assistance (+2) - Unmet Needs Fund
The Community Foundation’s Unmet Needs Fund continues to address critical gaps for families navigating recovery:
– 161 households served (+9)
– Average award: $4,335
– Recent requests continue to focus on flood-related debris removal and property cleanup
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Grantee Spotlight: Welcome Home Broach Family
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For decades, Gary Broach, owner of Rhodes Taxidermy, has given back to this community, supporting 4-H, FFA and local youth programs across the Hill Country.
He is not someone accustomed to being on the receiving end. After the July 4 flood damaged his home, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country helped support the rebuilding process so Gary could return home safely. Today, he is back where he belongs. “I tell anyone who’ll listen how awesome everyone has been to me,” Gary shared.
Recovery is strongest when a community shows up for those who have long shown up for others.
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Supporting Those Who Support Recovery: Leadership Lessons by Hummingly Foundation |
Two upcoming workshops in Kerrville are designed to support the people leading and sustaining disaster recovery efforts across the Hill Country. Each session offers practical tools to help teams stay effective, resilient and supported throughout long-term recovery work. March 30
Leadership Lessons to Lighten the Load
A workshop for leaders guiding teams through the complexities of long-term recovery. |
March 31 Keeping Your Team Strong
Focused on strengthening teams and building resilience during extended recovery efforts. |
Both workshops are facilitated by the Hummingly Foundation and provide actionable strategies participants can bring back to their organizations. |
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Strengthening Mental Health Across Our Community |
The full Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute’s Needs Assessment outlines four strategic areas the community must activate to address both existing and emerging mental health challenges following the July 4 flood. The Community Foundation is committed to advancing each of these priorities through thoughtful, multi-year investments. - Awareness and Navigation Supports
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The Foundation is investing in mental health navigation and awareness efforts, including a three-year grant to fund a Community Mental Health Navigator who connects individuals and families to timely, compassionate care.
- Trauma and Grief Capacity
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Multi-year grants to local partners are expanding trauma and grief services, strengthening counselor capacity and equipping parents, educators and helping professionals to respond to disaster-related loss.
- Community Access Points
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The Foundation is increasing barrier-free access to care by fully funding a walk-in Emotional Support Drop-In Center and exploring expanded services in schools, faith communities and through telehealth.
- Specialized Care
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Targeted investments are supporting bereaved families, first responders, educators and other impacted groups through dedicated funds, professional workshops and mobile mental health resources.
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The Community Flood Recovery Needs Assessment is helping identify what Hill Country families need most after the July 4 floods, from housing repairs and financial strain to emotional and mental health challenges. This survey guides how recovery resources are directed and helps ensure assistance reaches every neighbor who needs it. If your household was affected by the storm, or if you know someone who was, please take a moment to complete or share the assessment. |
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Grant Opportunities: Know a Nonprofit Working to Support Community Recovery? |
The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has opened the Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund as well as the Community and Culture Fund application portal for nonprofits and public organizations serving Kerr County and Comfort. The first step - an online Letter of Interest - helps determine if the applicant’s mission and programs align with funding priorities. If your organization may benefit from this Fund’s priorities, you can learn more and begin the process below. |
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The Needs Assessment, launched August 4, 2025, provides a clear picture of what flood-impacted households need most, including housing repairs, financial support and health services. This information helps recovery partners target resources where they can make the most impact. |
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Were you affected by the flood? |
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