The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation has launched a massive new fund to assist the tens of thousands of people rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, one of the most devastating natural disasters to strike the U.S.
Michael Dell, the founder of what is now Dell Technologies, the largest privately-held tech company in the world, has committed $36 million through the foundation he and his wife, Susan, established 18 years ago. Their goal is to raise more than $100 million.
The Dell's $36 million contribution is also intended to trigger other donations. The Rebuild Texas Fund invites anyone to pitch in by texting 91999 with the words "RebuildTX."
"This is our home. And we know that it will take all of us working together, over the long term, to rebuild our Texas communities," Dell, who grew up the now-flooded neighborhood of Meyerland in Houston, said in a news release. "As we announce the launch of the Rebuild Texas Fund, we know it is imperative to rally support from companies, community leaders and individuals to work alongside state and federal officials to provide an additional source of funding and ideas for recovery and rebuilding."
Dell, who is getting help from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, may be the Austin area's wealthiest and most well-known tech entrepreneur. But he is far from alone in this philanthropic rebuilding effort.
Other partners on the fund include:
The BazaarVoice Foundation, Carly & Clayton Christopher, David Robinson and Robinson Family Foundation, Gerstner Family Foundation, Lorraine Clasquin, Kate Harslem, and Eric Harslem (KLE Foundation), Lyda Hill Foundation, Kozmetsky Family Foundation, Red McCombs, Sooch Foundation, Verizon and WalMart.
"We're heartbroken. Michael and I are both from Texas, and the street he grew up on is under water now," Susan Dell, who founded the foundation, said in the news release. "We want everyone to know that we are in this for the long haul to support families and communities – our neighbors in need."
