Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Announces Plans for $2 Million Commitment to Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts]

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials announced plans for its $2 million donation to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts to help rebuild Houston and the surrounding areas.

“With a mission of promoting agriculture and a passion for education, it is only fitting for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to equally support these areas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey,” said Joel Cowley, president and CEO. “Recent events have illustrated that we should never take food and fiber for granted, and educating our youth paves the way to a brighter future for all. As part of the Houston community for more than 85 years, we are proud to support our friends and neighbors during the recovery process.”

The $2 million donation will be distributed among the following organizations and relief funds:

Agricultural Support

· Texas Farm Bureau – Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund for Agriculture

o An application process will be used to disperse funds directly to farmers and ranchers located in disaster counties as designated by the federal government.

· Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation – 4-H Gives

o Donations will be directed to Texas 4-H programs that were impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

· Texas FFA Association – A New Day Crisis Fund

o Donations will be directed to Texas FFA chapters that were impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

· Houston SPCA

o Funds will aid in the rescue and care of farm animals and wildlife.

Educational Support

· Greater Houston Community Foundation – Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund

o Funds will support educational recovery efforts in Harris County.

· United Way of Greater Houston – United Way Relief Fund

o Funds will support educational recovery efforts in other counties in the Houston metropolitan area.

By donating to these organizations, the Rodeo’s support will extend beyond Houston to help those in affected counties across the south and southeast portion of the state.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ promotes agriculture by providing a family-friendly live entertainment experience that educates the public, supports Texas youth, and showcases Western heritage. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $430 million to the youth of Texas. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all of the latest news. The 2018 Rodeo is scheduled for Feb. 27 – March 18.