The job of president of the United States is never finished.
As Hurricane Harvey approached southeastern Texas last week, experts warned that it had the potential to be a cataclysmic, catastrophic event. When the storm settled over Houston and emptied trillions of gallons of rain on the city, it was clear that it surpassed even the direst predictions.
Charities have been overwhelmed with donations—Houston Texans star J.J. Watt has been able to raise over $20 million alone—and Congress has worked out the preliminary details of a nearly $8 billion relief package. Now, every living past U.S. president has teamed up for One America Appeal to raise money for those affected by the hurricane.
The former Presidents were inspired to come together in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, which unleashed devastating flooding — and spurred thousands of first responders and neighbors into action. More than one million people have been displaced by Harvey, which has caused up to $180 billion in damages to over 200,000 homes over a 300-mile path of destruction.
The group released this video last night.
https://www.facebook.com/obamafoundation/videos/692092560991435/
As Hurricane Irma now churns toward Florida, the presidents have announced that funds raised will go to victims of both natural disasters.
Former presidents joining forces for charity is not without precedent. In 2010, Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush teamed up to raise funds for Haiti after an earthquake devastated the impoverished nation, raising $54 million.
President Donald Trump endorsed One America Appeal in a tweet last night.
We will confront ANY challenge, no matter how strong the winds or high the water. I’m proud to stand with Presidents for #OneAmericaAppeal.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 8, 2017
You can donate to the fund here.
Update 2:37pm CT, Sept. 25: After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, One America Appeal has included an option to donate to places hit by that storm, as well.
“Now individuals, foundations and institutions making tax deductible donations at OneAmericaAppeal.org may choose to assist all three recovery efforts from Hurricanes Harvey in Texas, Irma in Florida and Maria in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands — or to direct their donation to a specific recovery effort,” said the campaign.
Donors can contribute to both United for Puerto Rico and the Fund for the Virgin Islands.