Comcast, Houston’s largest internet service provider, has contributed half a million dollars to the Severe Weather and Derecho Recovery fund— a fund established by the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance which is led by the Greater Houston Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston. The fund will support those affected by recent severe storms, derecho winds, tornados and flooding.
“The fund supports our most vulnerable neighbors in times of crisis,” said Amanda McMillian, CEO of United Way of Greater Houston.
Early contributions include $500,000 from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation and $500,000 from Comcast, split into $250,000 cash and $250,000 in-kind donations. Houston City Council recognized the relief fund and the contributors during Wednesday’s council meeting
“The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance ensures swift and efficient disaster response,” Stephen Maislin, CEO of Greater Houston Community Foundation said. “Collaboration is key to helping the most vulnerable recover.”
Following President Joe Biden’s Major Disaster Declaration on May 18, 2024, the fund aims to complement federal assistance by providing emergency financial aid, home repairs, and resource access to low-to-moderate income families in Harris, Montgomery, and Waller counties.
The Alliance, leveraging over 35 years of disaster recovery experience, focuses on maintaining and strengthening disaster preparedness and response systems.
Residents needing assistance should call 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE or visit 211texas.org for resources.
“We are working together to meet the needs of those impacted by recent natural disasters,” Houston Mayor John Whitmire said. Judge Lina Hidalgo encouraged volunteers and donations to support recovery efforts.
For more information and to donate, visit www.derechofund.org.
