Daisy Espinoza
The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance has launched the Hurricane Beryl Recovery Fund for those impacted by the storm.
The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance, Greater Houston Community Foundation, and United Way of Greater Houston partnered with the city of Houston and Harris County for residents severely affected by the storm. The fund is distributed to area nonprofit organizations that then connect with those in need after the storm.
Amanda McMillian is the President and CEO of United Way of Greater Houston and said they hope to help those who were uninsured or underinsured and don’t have access to resources.
“We really are trying to focus on moderate to low-income individuals who are already struggling, especially subject to major setbacks when they have lost wages, gotta make home repairs, all the food in your fridge is spoiled and you can’t afford to replace it all,” McMillian said.
McMillian says they hope to provide those in need with financial assistance, home repairs, and any resources those affected might need. She says areas needing help are determined through zip code analysis of who was hit the hardest and are considered the most vulnerable.
“13% of households in our region, are struggling on income below the poverty line, and we have an additional 31% of households across our region who are working really hard and struggling to afford the basics from month to month. We know from experience that when disaster strikes, it’s these neighbors that get hit the hardest,” said McMillian.
The fund is for Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, and Waller Counties. Applications will be made through area nonprofit organizations participating. While funds are not yet available, those with urgent needs can call 211 to receive help.
