Congressman Gonzalez Hosts Press Conference with Harlingen Mayor Sepulveda on FEMA Disaster Declaration

Affected South Texans Can Now Apply for Federal Assistance

HARLINGEN, TEXAS – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) held a press conference with Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda on the recent major disaster declaration for the Rio Grande Valley. This disaster declaration comes after an April 29, 2025, letter Congressman Gonzalez sent to the President. In the letter, he urged the President to immediately issue a declaration and empower the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to dispense urgently needed assistance. Congressman Gonzalez wrote to Texas Governor Greg Abbott on March 28, 2025, urging him to issue a disaster declaration. 

“South Texas homeowners and business owners impacted by the March 2025 floods can now apply for crucial federal assistance,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “I will continue to work with federal, state and local officials to ensure those affected by this disaster receive the necessary resources to begin the recovery and rebuilding process.” 

Federal Assistance Available 

·         The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Texas small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by the March floods. More information can be found on the SBA’s website here. 

·         South Texas individuals and business owners can now apply for federal assistance. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help recover from the effects of the disaster. More information can be found on FEMA’s website here. 

·         FEMA has also announced the following Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) locations in TX-34 where FEMA officials will be able to assist South Texans directly. Starting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, these locations will be open 8 a.m. CT to 7 p.m. CT, 7 days a week until further notice: 

HIDALGO COUNTY   

Weslaco EDC   

275 S. Kansas Ave.   

Weslaco, TX  78596 

WILLACY COUNTY 

Sebastian Community Center   

434 West 8th Street   

Sebastian, TX  78594 

CAMERON COUNTY 

Harlingen Convention Center 

701 Harlingen Heights 

Harlingen, TX 78552