clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Robert Kraft, J.J. Watt, NFL raising millions in donations for Hurricane Harvey disaster relief

The NFL is stepping up after one of the worst natural disasters in Texas’ history.

If you’re looking for ways to help Houston after Hurricane Harvey, please check out this post with a list charities open for donations.

NFL stakeholders are stepping up after Hurricane Harvey to help those in the greatest need. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has made a $1 million matching pledge to the Red Cross, per a team release.

“The New England Patriots are deeply saddened by the news of the devastating damage caused by Hurricane Harvey over the weekend in Texas, especially in the greater Houston area,” the press release states. “In an effort to provide much needed financial support to a community where they have family members and many friends, the Kraft family is offering to match all funds donated to the American Red Cross in support of Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief Fund up to $1 million.

“The unprecedented flooding has already claimed multiple lives, caused tens of thousands to evacuate their homes and affected millions of residents living in the greater Houston area, the nation’s fourth largest city.

“The Patriots are currently working with the American Red Cross to create a site to accept these donations. Donation details will be shared later today.”

EDIT: You can contribute to the Patriots’ Red Cross donation site HERE.

“Houston is a special city to our family and our organization,” said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. “The New England Patriots and our fans have celebrated two of our franchise’s greatest and most memorable moments in Houston. The city was a tremendous host for Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004 and once again this past February for Super Bowl LI. Houston could not have provided more support to us during those visits, and we welcome the opportunity to provide this support when Houston needs it most. When natural disasters have impacted our country, they have always unified communities and rallied support throughout the nation. We have already heard stories of heroic rescues and strangers helping strangers in this time of need. These stories have inspired us, as we always encourage bringing communities together, building bridges and helping others. We are eager to join in these efforts and provide our support.”

Houston Texans owner Bob McNair pledged $1 million to United Way of Greater Houston Flood Relief Fund and the NFL Foundation immediately matched that donation. Texans DL J.J. Watt is raising $500,000 for the fund and will likely raise the goal amount once fans reach their milestone.

Edit: Watt has raised the goal to $1 million.

“Hurricane Harvey has taken a catastrophic toll on our great city, while leaving many stranded and in need of assistance,” Watt writes on his fundraising page. “We must come together and collectively help rebuild the aspects of our community members lives that were damaged or lost. Any donation that you can spare, no matter how large or small, is greatly appreciated. We will come out of this stronger than ever. We are Texans.”

If you’re looking for ways to help Houston after Hurricane Harvey, please check out this post with a list charities open for donations.