Michael Dell pledges $36 million for Harvey recovery

Dell computers founder who grew up in Houston gives money to help with long-term rebuilding effort after devastating floods

Michael Dell, founder and chief executive officer of Dell. (Courtesy)
Michael Dell, founder and chief executive officer of Dell. (Courtesy)

Michael Dell, founder and CEO of Dell Technologies, has pledged up to $36 million for Texas recovery efforts in the wake of the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath.

Dell announced the donation on Friday to the Rebuild Texas Fund, established by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation.

Dell grew up in Houston in a neighborhood that was hard hit by the hurricane and tropical storm.

“This disaster is personal to everyone who has roots in Texas. Both of us were born and raised in Texas, and the street Michael grew up on in Houston is under water now,” a statement issued by the foundation said.

The goal of the fund is to raise money “for longer term recovery and rebuilding of our communities, in addition to helping with immediate relief efforts,” according to the foundation.

A woman paddles down a flooded road while shuttling deliveries for her neighbors during the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey on August 30, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (AFP Photo/Brendan Smialowski)

The Dell Foundation donation includes a matching campaign. The foundation launched the fund with $18 million and will match other donations up to another 18 million.

Forbes estimates Dell’s net worth as of February 2017 at $20.8 billion.

Dell’s ancestors Anglicized the family’s original Yiddish name, Thal, when they immigrated to the United States.

Most Popular
read more:
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.