Creation of the Severe Weather Recovery Fund and Derecho

HOUSTON – A new fund has been created to help people affected by severe weather in the Houston area over the past month.

The Severe Weather and Derecho Recovery Fund was created by the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance – a joint effort of the Greater Houston Community Foundation and the United Way of Greater Houston.

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“The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance was created so that in times of crisis, there would be a quick and effective response to help those severely affected begin the process of recovery,” said Stephen Maislin, president and CEO of the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance. Greater Houston Community Foundation. “When disaster strikes, a collaborative and coordinated response from the nonprofit, for-profit, public sector and philanthropic community is necessary to ensure that our region’s most vulnerable receive the help they need. they need to start the process of recovery and reconstruction.

According to the Houston Mayor’s Office, the fund will help residents of Harris, Montgomery and Waller counties who were impacted by severe storms, derecho winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred between April 26 and May 17.

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Officials say the money raised will be distributed as grants to nonprofit partners to provide low- and moderate-income families with emergency financial assistance, home repairs and help accessing resources.

“Outside of times of disaster, we know that 14% of households in our region struggle to earn an income below the federal poverty level and 31% of households in our region work hard but struggle to make both ends meet. ends. It is these neighbors who are disproportionately affected. affected in a disaster,” said Amanda McMillian, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Houston. “This fund allows us to support the most vulnerable people who have been affected by recent weather events to ensure they can not only recover from the immediate crisis, but also prepare for future disasters.”

Officials say the fund received early support of $500,000 from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, as well as a $500,000 contribution from Comcast – split into a $250,000 cash donation and $250,000 in-kind donation.

“We are working together to meet the needs of those affected by the recent natural disasters that have affected our region. We will work closely with the United Way of Greater Houston, the Greater Houston Community Foundation and Harris County to recruit the necessary resources to assist in recovery efforts. “, said Mayor John Whitmire. “The activation of the Severe Weather Recovery Fund and Derecho is an important part of the overall recovery efforts, aimed at connecting affected families with the help they need to rebuild and recover.

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Those who need immediate assistance are encouraged to call the 211 Texas/United Way hotline for information on assistance with utilities, housing or rent assistance, counseling crisis, senior services, food pantries and more.

You can also find resources or chat with a specialist at 211texas.org. You can also email [email protected] for assistance.

“My heart goes out to everyone affected by these devastating disasters. In times like these, the strength and unity of our community in Harris County becomes our greatest asset. There are ways that all residents of Harris County can support. For those who are willing and able to contribute financially, your donation to the Severe Weather and Derecho Recovery Fund is invaluable. This fund will help us quickly distribute relief funds to local nonprofits. they can start helping people rebuild as soon as possible, thank you to the United Way, the Greater Houston Community Foundation and everyone who is helping us recover,” said Judge Lina Hidalgo.

If you would like more information about the fund or would like to donate, visit https://disasteralliance.org/derecho/