COLDSPRING — The third of the three Reese brothers received a key to a new home, one that was built through the Texas General Land Office Homeowner Assistance Program.
The key handoff for Herman Reese's completed home was done Thursday.
Herman Reese is one of three brothers whose homes are now rebuilt following damage from Hurricane Beryl; his brothers Leon Reese and Arthur Reese received keys to newly rebuilt homes earlier this year.
The Reese brothers' story highlights the resilience of Texas families and the lasting impact disaster recovery programs can have across multiple generations of a single family.
The brothers live in three separate homes in Coldspring, down the street from each other. In 2024, Hurricane Beryl severely damaged each home, so all three brothers applied to the GLO’s 2024 Disasters Homeowner Assistance Program for help rebuilding their homes.
The Reese brothers' experience reflects the challenges many families face after a disaster. Each home experienced extensive damage but also held precious memories of family gatherings and a treasured life together. But the Texas GLO’s Homeowner Assistance Program offered energy efficient and disaster resilient reconstruction that includes accessibility features that will help the brothers live more comfortably now and in the future. The brothers’ family members expressed relief and joy knowing each brother will be safe and secure in their new homes.
The programs are only available for a main home (primary residence). Homeowners can only apply for one of the two programs — either reimbursement or repair/reconstruction assistance. An application must be submitted along with required documents for consideration. Applications for both programs will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and eligible homeowners are encouraged to apply immediately. Apply now or get more information at recovery.texas.gov/apply.
Potential applicants should review the document checklists for the programs to have all applicable documents ready prior to applying. For assistance, interested participants can email cdr@recovery.texas.gov or call 1-844-893-8937.
Eligible counties include Anderson, Bell, Brazoria, Caldwell, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Fort Bend, Galveston, Guadalupe, Hardin, Hays, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Kaufman, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, and Wharton.
Previously, GLO Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., said recovery is about far more than rebuilding homes, it is about restoring hope and helping Texas families move forward.
“The Reese brothers remind us that disaster recovery can change the trajectory of an entire family,” she said. “We are proud to celebrate these milestones alongside Arthur, Leon, Herman, and their loved ones as they continue their journey toward recovery.”
