Denison, Texas — A year after devastating floods impacted the Texas Hill Country, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has reported distributing approximately $82 million in aid to those affected. The foundation, based in Kerrville, initiated its relief fund on July 4, 2025, when the Guadalupe River overflowed, resulting in over 130 fatalities.
Donations exceeded $150 million, marking one of the largest disaster-recovery efforts in Texas history.
Austin Dickson, the foundation's CEO, noted that the anniversary brings both sorrow and hope. The organization acted swiftly to provide emergency assistance, housing repairs, and mental health services. Within 45 days post-disaster, $15 million was allocated to over 50 local nonprofits for direct financial support and crisis intervention.
As immediate needs were addressed, the focus shifted to long-term recovery, with around one-third of grants directed toward housing assistance.
Currently, about 130 families have returned to repaired homes, while 98 households are transitioning into permanent housing. To support mental health, the foundation has funded access to licensed therapists, responding to a January assessment indicating a significant rise in post-traumatic stress among survivors. Additionally, $10 million has been earmarked for a readiness and resilience fund to enhance preparedness for future disasters.
Although Denison is located far from the flood zone, the disaster's impact resonated across Texas, with donations pouring in from various regions. The recovery efforts continue, with nearly half of the funds still available as rebuilding progresses.
