SAN ANTONIO – The impact of Covid-19 on Bexar County extends beyond its tragic toll on lives to a significant financial burden for families coping with funeral expenses. Recently released records from FEMA shed light on the scale of this burden, revealing a substantial demand for financial assistance among affected families.

Record Requests and Financial Support

According to records obtained through a recent open records request, 3,783 families in Bexar County sought assistance from FEMA’s Covid Funeral Assistance program. Of these applications, 3,123 were deemed eligible for aid. The total disbursement for funeral expenses in the county reached $19,133,527. The program, designed to alleviate the financial strain of Covid-related deaths, covers up to $9,000 in burial costs per deceased individual.

Challenges Faced by Families

For many families like the Torreses, the process of receiving this aid has been fraught with challenges and delays. Edward Torres shared his frustration after a 16-month ordeal to secure reimbursement for his father’s funeral expenses. His father, Ernesto Torres, succumbed to Covid-19 and pneumonia in November 2022. Despite FEMA’s approval of $6,000 in assistance, Edward faced bureaucratic hurdles, including repeated document requests and a mishandled transaction that initially sent funds to the wrong bank account.

It was a headache, I got gray hair, I’ve got more gray hair now, lamented Edward Torres, reflecting on the protracted ordeal.

Response and Resolution

Following persistent advocacy, including outreach to local reporters and Congressman Joaquin Castro’s office, Torres finally received the approved funds in April. Congressman Castro’s office confirmed their active role in assisting constituents navigating delays with FEMA, underscoring their commitment to supporting families in accessing crucial financial relief during challenging times.

Regional Impact and Comparison

Bexar County ranked third in Texas for Covid Funeral Assistance disbursements, trailing behind Harris County, which received $38,008,976, and Dallas County with $21,553,135. These figures underscore the widespread economic impact of the pandemic on Texas communities, particularly in urban centers grappling with higher infection rates and subsequent fatalities.

Conclusion

The financial toll of Covid-19 continues to reverberate through Bexar County, as families navigate the aftermath of loss compounded by economic strain. While FEMA’s Covid Funeral Assistance program has provided crucial relief to thousands, challenges in processing applications highlight ongoing administrative hurdles. As communities strive to recover and rebuild, ensuring efficient access to financial support remains paramount.

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