JJ Watt’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Campaign Raises More Than $16 Million

JJ Watt’s Hurricane Harvey Relief campaign on YouCaring has successfully raised more than $16 million! The initiative was launched following the devastating storm’s hit the state of Texas, causing flooding in and around the city of Houston. The Texans football player kicked off the campaign on Sunday afternoon with a personal contribution of $100,000. He stated:

“The recovery efforts after Hurricane Harvey are going to be massive, and many people will need our help to get back on their feet. It’s extremely difficult to have to watch the events unfold on TV and not be able to get back to Houston to help – but hopefully this fundraiser will help show our love and support to those who need it the most right now. Any donation that you can spare, no matter how large or small, no matter what city or state you live in, is greatly appreciated. We will come out of this stronger than ever.”

Among those who have donated to the campaign are Ellen DeGeneres, who pitched in $1 million with Walmart, Drake who gave $200,000, Amy Adams Strunk and the Tennessee Titans gave $1 million. The funding target is now up to $20 million. YouCaring, which is a certified B-Corporation with a focus on helping those facing hardship, notably does not take a cut of each donation but instead relies on voluntary donor tips to fund operations. YouCaring is now supporting nearly 2,000 active Hurricane Harvey relief fundraisers.