Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF) is a national organization that helps disabled veterans cope with physical and emotional disabilities through the sport of fly fishing. The Texas Hill Country chapter has just established its own PHWFF program.

The program began having meetings in April 2023, and Program Lead Walter Lee is excited about the impact it will make.

“Our program is designed to help veterans build lasting relationships with fellow veterans, volunteers, and the natural world. By participating in our program, veterans have the opportunity to connect with the community and receive therapeutic benefits from being outdoors and engaging in a rewarding activity,” Lee said. “PHWFF is a unique and effective program that helps veterans heal through the power of fly fishing. We encourage veterans to participate and join our community, and we welcome volunteers and supporters to help us make a difference in the lives of our local veterans. Our program brings a sense of camaraderie and self-confidence, along with physical and spiritual healing that cannot be found anywhere else.”

Regular meetings for the Texas Hill Country PHWFF program will begin Aug. 1 and take place on Tuesdays from 5–7:30 p.m. at the Dietert center, 451 Guadalupe St., No. 203, in Kerrville , and Wednesdays from 2-5 p.m. at the VFW at 710 Washington St. in Fredericksburg.  All are welcome to attend any or all of the meetings.

In addition, the program will hold meetings on the second Mondays from 2-3:30 p.m. for inpatients at the Kerrville VA Medical Center.  Volunteers for this very important portion of the program are critical to work one-on-one with the veterans.  The program also plans to hold outings in the near future, providing an opportunity for participants to put their new skills to the test. All equipment and materials for fishing, fly tying, and rod building is provided free to all participants.

The Texas Hill Country Fly Fishers is the sponsoring club for the program, and interested parties can visit their website at www.thcff.org for more information about this outstanding club.  Those interested in volunteering, participating, or supporting the new PHWFF program can contact Walter Lee at walter.lee@projecthealingwaters.org or call 830-792-4737.

This program is a source of honor and pride for the Texas Hill Country community and promises to deliver meaningful benefits to veterans and the community as a whole.  Supporting PHWFF and the Texas Hill Country chapter through volunteering and/or donations is an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of veterans and contribute to a more connected and thriving community.