Newton County Eligible for $555 Million in Federal Disaster Recovery Funds

A Newton County resident works to secure a tarp over storm damage after the 2024 severe weather events. Federal disaster recovery funds will soon be available to help local homeowners repair and rebuild. Photo by Rita Shipp.

NEWTON COUNTY, Texas — Good news is on the horizon for Newton County residents still rebuilding after last spring’s severe storms, flooding, and Hurricane Beryl.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded over $555 million in federal disaster recovery funds to Texas, with Newton County included on the eligibility list. The programs, administered by the Texas General Land Office (GLO), are designed to help homeowners, renters, and local governments recover and rebuild.

What’s Available:

• Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP): Funding to repair or rebuild damaged homes.

• Homeowner Reimbursement Program (HRP): Up to $75,000 for eligible repair expenses already paid out of pocket.

• Affordable Rental Program (ARP): Support for rebuilding and creating affordable rental housing.

• Local Communities Program (LCP): Grants for local governments to restore roads, bridges, utilities, and public facilities.

Who Qualifies:

Residents must live in an eligible county — Newton County is included — and the home must have been a primary residence damaged during the 2024 disasters. Documentation such as FEMA inspection reports, insurance claims, or repair receipts will be required.

What to Do Now:

Applications are not open yet, but GLO officials encourage residents to start gathering paperwork. This may include:

• Photo ID

• Proof of ownership or lease

• Proof of residence (such as utility bills or mail)

• FEMA or insurance claim records

• Receipts or photos of repairs

Local governments may also apply for community recovery projects, with grants ranging from $500,000 to $5 million.

How to Apply:

• Call the GLO Disaster Recovery hotline: 1-844-893-8937.

• Visit recovery.texas.gov for program guidelines and updates.

Newton County leaders say this funding represents a vital opportunity for residents to not only recover but come back stronger than before.

"This is a big step forward for families and communities who’ve carried the weight of these disasters," local officials noted.