The Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and the NFL Foundation have pledged a combined $1.5 million to support those affected by the catastrophic flash floods in central Texas, which have claimed over 70 lives and left many others missing.
According to a statement from the NFL, the donations will provide both immediate relief and long-term support for survivors and the families of victims. Each entity – the Cowboys, Texans, and NFL Foundation – will contribute $500,000.
Flash floods devastated the region over the Independence Day weekend, as the Guadalupe River surged to the height of a two-story building on July 4. According to Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, the river rose an astonishing 26 feet in just 45 minutes due to intense rainfall.
Over the course of the weekend, some counties saw up to 11 inches of rain, triggering the deadly flooding that has left widespread damage and numerous communities reeling.
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“Our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastation and loss of life caused by the floods in Kerr county and Texas Hill County, especially for the young girls and their families, as well as all of those lost and their loved ones,” the Cowboys said in a statement.
“This has been devastating to see and we hold everyone impacted in our thoughts and prayers. Standing side by side with The Salvation Army‘s critical response, we are also donating $500,000 to provide immediate resources for rescue, relief and long term recovery efforts.”
— dallascowboys (@dallascowboys)
“We are heartbroken by the loss and damage that our neighbors in the Texas Hill County have endured,” the Texans said. “We are especially devastated to hear about the children who are still missing and we are praying they are reunited with their families soon. Our hearts will remain with everyone affected and in addition to our donation, we will continue to support the search, rescue and recovery efforts in the coming weeks.”— HoustonTexans (@HoustonTexans)
Latino superstar Shakira also announced on social media Saturday that she will be donating a portion of the proceeds from her San Antonio concert to Catholic Charities of San Antonio, an organization actively assisting victims of the recent flooding in the Texas Hill Country.