Resources for Texans affected by flooding: Find shelter, supplies and assistance
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Severe flooding in Central Texas has left residents displaced, with damaged homes and urgent recovery needs. If you were impacted, here's a list of helpful resources:
Immediate Assistance & General Support:
Cross Kingdom Church in Kerrville has received donations and is offering supplies to anyone in need. The church is located at 3044 Junction Highway.
The Salvation Army is accepting online donations and donations of nonperishable food, hygiene items, diapers, and other essentials.
- Phone: 830-465-4797
- 855 Hays St., Kerrville, TX 78028
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Homeowners and renters in federally declared disaster areas should register for assistance. FEMA may provide grants for temporary housing, essential repairs, and low-cost loans for uninsured losses.
Steps to take:
- Take photos and videos of damage
- Save receipts for repairs or temporary housing
- Ask about advance payments
- If your home is unlivable, check if your policy covers hotel stays
Before applying for FEMA assistance, file a claim with your insurance provider. Applying for FEMA aid for damages already covered by insurance is considered insurance fraud.
- Register online: DisasterAssistance.gov
- By phone: (800) 621-3362, 7 a.m.–11 p.m. ET daily; TTY (800) 462-7585
- Download the FEMA app: fema.gov/mobile-app
American Red Cross: Provides emergency aid, temporary sheltering/housing, mental health assistance, financial assistance, and health services.
- Get Assistance: https://www.redcross.org/find-help
- Toll-Free: 1-866-438-4636 or 1-800-RED CROSS
Housing & Financial Assistance
2-1-1 Texas: Provides information and resources for homeless shelters, transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and low-income/subsidized rental housing.
American Red Cross: Find an open shelter or disaster relief service area near you:
Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM): The agency provides updates and resources for individuals, businesses, and local governments impacted by emergencies.
Texas Department of Insurance (TDI): Provides information on how to file an insurance claim, where to get help, and tips to avoid scams and fraud.
- Phone: 1-800-252-3439
- Website: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/consumer/storms/recoverytips
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): managed by FEMA, helps property owners understand their flood coverage and file claims. Flood damage is not typically covered under standard homeowner policies.
- Phone: (800) 427-4661
- Email: FloodSmart@fema.dhs.gov
Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA): Includes information on the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund, which assists farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness owners.
Website: https://texasagriculture.gov/Home/Production-Agriculture/Disaster-Assistance
Small Business Administration (SBA): Can provide low-interest disaster loans for businesses, private non-profits, homeowners, and renters.
Website: https://lending.sba.gov/search-disaster/?disaster=TX-20057
Legal Assistance
Disaster Legal Services (DLS): Provided to low-income survivors affected by a presidentially declared major disaster. Can assist with insurance claims, lost legal papers (wills, powers of attorney), home repair contracts, landlord issues, proof of home ownership, and FEMA appeals.
- FEMA's Helpline: 1-800-621-3362
Lone Star Legal Aid: Provides free legal help to low-income disaster survivors.
- Disaster Hotline: 866-659-0666
- Apply Online: https://www.lonestarlegal.org/services/disaster-relief/
Mental Health & Emotional Support
Disaster Distress Helpline: offers free, confidential crisis support in any language.
- Phone: 1-800-985-5990
- Text: TalkWithUs to 66746
Important Notes for Displaced Families
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all damages, expenses, and communications with insurance companies and relief organizations. Take photos and videos.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of individuals or groups offering unsolicited help or demanding upfront payments for services. Work with reputable organizations.
- Prioritize Safety: Ensure your temporary living situation is safe and stable.
If you’ve moved, update your mailing address with the U.S. Postal Service at moversguide.usps.com to continue receiving important mail.