University of Denver Helping Victims of Harvey

The devastation revealed in the aftermath of the most powerful hurricane to hit Texas in more than 50 years is staggering. Hurricane Harvey is estimated to have displaced more than 1 million people, damaged upward of 200,000 homes and left a path of destruction stretching 300 miles.

In response to the tragedy, the University of Denver is encouraging cash donations to trustworthy charities and partnering with Buehler Companies to host a donation drive. The goal is to fill a moving truck with non-perishable food items, water and clothing that will be delivered to victims in Houston.

“As thousands in our country struggle to rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, the DU community wants to help,” says DU Chancellor Rebecca Chopp. “Through cash donations to reputable charities and physical donations of non-perishable items and bottled water, we can help make a difference.”

This Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., items will be collected on the south side of the Ritchie Center — outside the Shwayder Art Building — along East Asbury. Once the truck is filled, the items will be delivered with the cooperation of the Aurora Police Department and Houston’s mayor, Sylvester Turner.

“When Buehler Companies saw the devastation around Houston, we wanted to do the right thing and assist those affected by Hurricane Harvey,” says Stuart Smith, CEO of Buehler Mayflower. “The number of people who immediately came forward wanting to donate their time, money and belongings has been astounding, and we quickly realized that the most effective way we can help is by dedicating our company trucks to transport these necessities to the Houston area.”

The University of Denver is already working to provide assistance to current students who are from the impacted area. This new partnership between Denver Athletics and Buehler Companies is making it possible for the DU community to help other victims of Hurricane Harvey as well.

“The University of Denver is very excited to partner with Buehler Companies for this donation drive to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey,” says DU Athletic Director Ron Grahame. “Sharing our time and resources to this drive for those impacted by such a devastating natural disaster can help bring communities together, not just in Houston, but here in Denver as well. We hope that everyone involved with the University of Denver, DU supporters and the Denver community can stand as one to help our fellow citizens in the Houston area.”

In addition to donating items, the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund was created by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner as a way to make cash donations to help victims. The fund is administered by the public charity Greater Houston Community Foundation. If you would like to make an online donation, please click here.