SAN ANGELO, TX — Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday presented checks to Tom Green County residents impacted by the Fourth of July weekend flooding, saying private donations — including money raised at a George Strait benefit concert through Vaqueros Del Mar — are being moved “directly into the hands of the people who need it quickly.”
Speaking at the SPUR Arena in San Angelo, Abbott outlined the state’s disaster response and emphasized that early efforts focused on lifesaving rescues. He said “state first responders alone… were able to rescue and evacuate more than 1000 people,” and that “we have more than 100 people out looking for those who are still missing.”
Abbott said the concert originally raised funds to assist primary residences damaged or destroyed in Kerr County, but extra money is now being directed to Tom Green County after discussions with Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. Organizers “looked at those who suffered the most damage, as well as those who may have the most challenges being able to pay for those damages,” he said.
“All of you fall into that category,” Abbott told attendees. “Everyone here is going to leave with a check to help you begin or continue the process of rebuilding your property.” Recipients were called in alphabetical order, asked to sign for receipt, and given time to speak with the governor.
Kidd praised the local response — citing county and city officials, law enforcement, fire, and volunteer agencies — and pledged to remain on site with his team “until the last one of you leave today” to document remaining needs. “Big hearts, strong backs. You’re tough people,” he said.
On debris cleanup, Kidd noted San Angelo had pre-existing debris contracts and reiterated funding responsibilities: “FEMA will come in and pay for 75% of the debris, and the state is going to pick up the non federal share of that 25% as well.” Abbott asked residents to report any remaining storm debris so removal can continue.
You can watch the entire presentation below:
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