Last month, Texans experienced mass devastation due to Hurricane Harvey. Winds of 130 mph whipped through buildings and homes, leaving behind destruction. While Hurricane Harvey may have destroyed structures, it did not break the spirit of Texas. Days, weeks, and now one month after Hurricane Harvey’s damage, there hasn’t been a day that has gone by without relief efforts.

Since day one of the devastation, STEER’s member companies have stood by the community. Collectively, member companies have pledged nearly $11 million in funding for the United Way and American Red Cross to assist with communities in South Texas. Some pledges have included employee matches on top of flat donations.

In a time where every penny counts, companies went one step further, giving employees the flexibility to contribute time and money to local shelters. Employees held Bar-B-Ques for families held up in shelters, donated non-perishable goods to cities hosting evacuees, and delivered resources such as tools and food to first responders in need. Member companies have continued to offer support through debris removal and trash pickup. STEER Member Companies are also working with their own employees effected by Hurricane Harvey to provide some relief to them.

Hurricane Harvey is considered one of the most damaging natural disasters in the United States, causing billions of dollars in damage. While it may take years to rebuild communities in South Texas, residents are not in this fight alone. STEER staff remain in constant communication with local officials on the status of communities, trying to find ways to assist those that need it the most.

Although Hurricane Harvey left a trail of shattered debris, it did not shatter the spirit of Texans. STEER’s Member Companies were quick to set in motion disaster relief efforts, but even quicker at working to bridge community hope. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those effected by Hurricane Harvey.