Rebuilding Hope in the Hill Country Weekly Update – February 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 recovery continues to gain momentum, with 18 households now fully back home following the completion of repairs on their flood-damaged properties
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Additional families are nearing stability, as 14 households enter the final stages of receiving an RV or manufactured home through the RV and Manufactured Home Assistance Program.
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The path to long-term homeownership is also moving forward, with 13 households in the final steps of securing down payment assistance to purchase a new home
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Through the Unmet Needs Fund, nearly 150 households have received targeted support to cover essential expenses such as property taxes, furniture, appliances and business equipment, helping families and small businesses regain stability as recovery progresses
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Grantee Spotlight:
A New Beginning in Kerr County |
When floodwaters swept through Bumble Bee Hills in Ingram, many families were left facing unimaginable loss. For Nancy, an Ingram ISD middle school teacher and cheerleader sponsor, the damage meant starting over.
With support from the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, Nancy received down payment assistance to purchase a new home in Kerr County, turning uncertainty into opportunity. After renting in a neighborhood where most homes were heavily damaged or destroyed, she is now embracing a fresh start and the stability of homeownership. Nancy is especially grateful to Leslie Robertson, Ariel Brooks-Stevens, Kim Clarkson and the Community Foundation team for helping make relocation possible. The support not only provided financial assistance, but also renewed hope during a difficult season. Stories like Nancy’s are a powerful reminder that recovery is about restoring stability, strengthening community and helping neighbors move forward with confidence. |
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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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