The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund is distributing another $28.9 million in donated funds to 90 local nonprofits that will provide financial aid and services to flood victims in Houston and Harris County.
The fund was created by Mayor Sylvester Turner and County Judge Ed Emmett. Donations came from Houston and Harris County area residents, companies, foundations and people nationwide.
It's the second round of disbursements. The third round is expected to be done in January.
The fund has collected more than $100 million and has now distributed more than $36 million of it.
Donations will still be accepted through Dec. 31.
"Bouncing back from disaster is hard work for flood victims trying to repair homes, pay for temporary housing, replace damaged personal belongings and start their lives over,” Emmett said. “So, the administrators of the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund are working hard to meet their needs. It’s a process that is making a difference.”
Turner said, "I am heartened to see that round two of the distribution of donations from so many kind donors is based on data about needs in the community and will boost the well-being of the entire Houston area with direct financial aid and services that government simply cannot supply."
The distribution decisions were guided by FEMA data and calls to the city’s 211 help line.
Direct funding and services to be provided by the non-profit recipients include:
--Assistance with paying for food, clothing, rent, mortgage payments and utilities.
--Home repairs.
--Replacement of flood-damaged furniture and appliances for those who did not have flood insurance.
--Case management for elderly, disabled, and other individuals who need help applying for assistance and developing a recovery plan.
--Trauma/crisis intervention.
--Job training and employment services.
--Grants for families with children.