Texas flood survivors in Washington, D.C. urging lawmakers for disaster assistance

A group of about 30 delegates representing recent Texas flood survivors are in Washington, D.C., urging federal leaders for two main forms of help: an Individual Assistance designation for the 2026 flood through FEMA and federal funding for the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that President Trump has approved federal disaster assistance for 19 counties following severe weather and flooding that impacted communities across the state in July.  The Governor’s request for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program for 30 affected counties remains pending.  Additionally, a request from Texas to authorize additional FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program resources remains pending.

Individual Assistance can help pay for housing, unemployment assistance, case management and legal services after a disaster.  CDBG-DR is designed to support long-term community recovery, but survivors and advocates say the program currently does not have the funding needed to help affected residents return to stable housing.  The group is also calling on U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and others to support federal action.

The Kerrville Chamber of Commerce said businesses received $2.3 million in community donations after the 2025 flood.  After the 2026 flood, that number dropped to $268,000.

Grassroots organizers say they hope pressure from residents, advocates and elected officials will help unlock federal funding for disaster victims now and in the future.  Community members are also encouraged to contact their senators and urge support for disaster recovery assistance.