The Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) announced that its relief fund for RV parks and campgrounds affected by historic flooding in the Texas Hill Country has exceeded $30,000.
The fund, launched shortly after the July 4 disaster, was supported by donations from across the RV industry and will officially close on August 1.
A review committee composed of TACO staff and member park representatives will begin assessing applications to determine financial assistance for affected parks.
According to a press release, campground owners and operators must submit their applications by August 1 to be eligible for consideration.
In-kind contributions from suppliers and vendors have also played a critical role in recovery efforts. Many businesses have offered discounted equipment, cleanup assistance, and other support services.
“Lastly, we’ve also been blown away by the level of support from our supplier and vendor members. Everything from discounts on items needed to get back up and running to volunteering staff to assist in cleanup, those members have stepped up in a big way,” the association states.
“Much like the deadlines above, if you are a vendor/supplier that would like to offer an in-kind donation of any kind, please submit those to Lisa Rhodes by August 1st,” the press release adds.
The July 4 flood caused extensive damage across Kerr County, sweeping away RVs, tents, and infrastructure in several Hill Country campgrounds. The disaster prompted calls from state leaders to examine park safety and emergency protocols more closely.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has since called a special legislative session that will include discussions on disaster relief and preparedness. TACO confirmed it has been invited to participate in these discussions and will provide updates as available.
In a separate effort to support individual RVers, TACO has partnered with Topper’s RVs of Greater Houston to provide discounts on new units for flood victims. The dealership is offering $1,000 off new RV purchases, including delivery fees, to those directly impacted.
Topper’s RVs emphasized its longstanding connection to the camping community in its announcement. “Many of those affected were our neighbors, our customers and our friends,” the company said. “That’s why we’re stepping in to help however we can.”
In addition to offering discounts, Topper’s RVs will contribute a portion of related sales to the TACO disaster relief fund to further assist with long-term recovery.