Cowboys, Texans and NFL Foundation Contribute \$1.5 Million to Communities Impacted by Devastating Central Texas Flooding
In a remarkable show of solidarity, the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, and the NFL Foundation have committed a total of \$1.5 million to support communities severely affected by flash flooding across Central Texas.
The catastrophic event unfolded over the extended Independence Day weekend. Torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to surge by a staggering 26 feet within a single hourโturning it into a raging torrent that swept through Kerr County and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The floods claimed at least 70 lives, with 59 fatalities reported just in Kerr County. Dozens remain missing, including 11 young girls and a camp counselor from Camp Mystic, a Christian girlsโ summer camp on the riverbank.
Responding swiftly, each NFL entity pledged \$500,000 to aid recovery efforts. These funds will be directed to partner disaster-relief organizationsโprimarily the Salvation Army and the American Red Crossโto support emergency rescue operations, temporary shelter, and ongoing relief initiatives.
In a statement issued Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys conveyed deep sympathy for the impacted communities:
โWe hold everyone impacted in our thoughts and prayersโฆ we are also donating \$500,000 to provide immediate resources for rescue, relief and long-term recovery efforts.โ
Echoing this sentiment, the Houston Texans declared:
โWe are heartbroken by the loss and damageโฆ especially devastated to hear about the children who are still missing. Our hearts will remain with everyone affected and in addition to our donation, we will continue to support the search, rescue and recovery efforts in the coming weeks.โ
Not to be left out, the NFL Foundationโphilanthropic arm of the leagueโalso contributed \$500,000 to the same relief mission. The combined effort underscores the powerful influence that sports organizations can exert on alleviating human suffering during crises.
A Broader Community Impact
The floodingโs human toll has been profound. In Kerr County, 38 adults and 21 children lost their lives. In neighboring counties like Travis, Burnet, Williamson, and Tom Green, additional fatalities occurred, and several individuals were unaccounted for.
First responders, including helicopters, boats, and ground rescue teams, have labored tirelessly to locate survivors and transport victims to safety.
The suddenness of the disasterโprompted by historic rainfall during a long weekendโcaught residents off guard, trapping families in homes and campers at remote locations. The combined efforts of professional aid organizations and NFL-related donations will play a critical role in bolstering both immediate relief and rebuilding phases. Funds are expected to support emergency medical services, temporary housing, clean water distribution, and long-term infrastructure restoration.
Looking Ahead
As cleanup operations and recovery efforts progress, the NFLโs contribution represents more than just financial aidโit symbolizes hope, unity, and community spirit during one of Central Texasโs darkest moments. Long-term, these contributions will complement the work of federal aid programs, local nonprofits, and the tireless efforts of emergency personnel.
By combining resources and leveraging national attention, the Cowboys, Texans, and NFL Foundation have set a powerful example of solidarity and compassion. Their leadership enhances the broader effort to bring families back on their feet and restore the region’s sense of security and community, one dollarโand one act of kindnessโat a time.