The Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans and NFL Foundation will combine to make $1.5 million in donations to those impacted by the devastating and deadly floods in central Texas, which thus far have killed at least 70 and left dozens more unaccounted. The Texas-based franchises will provide both immediate assistance and long-term resources to the victims' families and survivors, the NFL said in a statement. Both teams and the NFL Foundation will donate $500,000 apiece.
Flash floods swept the region over the Independence Day weekend as the Guadalupe River rose on the July 4 holiday to the height of a two-story building. Heavy rain caused the river to climb 26 feet in 45 minutes, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said in a Friday news briefing. Up to 11 inches of rain fell in the affected counties over the weekend.
The death toll continues to rise, and 59 fatalities occurred in Kerr Country alone. That includes 38 adults and 21 children. At least 11 campers at Camp Mystic, a children's summer camp, are missing, as is a counselor. There were approximately 750 children at Camp Mystic when the floods began, Kerr County sheriff Larry Leitha said.
"Our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastation and loss of life caused by the floods in Kerr county and Texas Hill County, especially for the young girls and their families, as well as all of those lost and their loved ones," the Cowboys said. "This has been devastating to see and we hold everyone impacted in our thoughts and prayers. Standing side by side with The Salvation Army's critical response, we are also donating $500,000 to provide immediate resources for rescue, relief and long term recovery efforts."
Other counties reported deaths, as well. Travis County, home to state capital Austin, confirmed at least four deaths. Three people are dead and six are missing in Burnet County. Williamson County and Tom Green County confirmed one death apiece.
"We are heartbroken by the loss and damage that our neighbors in the Texas Hill County have endured," the Texans said. "We are especially devastated to hear about the children who are still missing and we are praying they are reunited with their families soon. 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."
President Donald Trump signed Sunday a major disaster declaration for Kerr County to assist the first responders in rescue efforts.