Microsoft ups donations to Hurricane Harvey first responders, standing by to do more

As the devastation Hurricane Harvey inflicted in Texas becomes increasingly clear Microsoft has increased its donations to those affected by the massive weather event, which has at last count killed 36 people and displaced more than 364,000.

Microsoft initially pledged $100,000 in aid, but are now contributing $2.5 million in cash, technology and services to support relief efforts and to help nonprofit and public-sector organizations as they assist the community in recovery. This included an initial cash donation to the American Red Cross for its most pressing needs.

In addition, Microsoft employees have so far donated  $100,000 for organizations including the American Red Cross and Team Rubicon, with Microsoft matching the donations dollar for dollar.

Microsoft says it is also working with nonprofit partners and organizations leading the relief efforts in Texas to understand the specific needs they have and standby to do more, not just in the short term, but also to assist these organizations in the long term while their relief efforts continue.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has said Houston’s recovery from Hurricane Harvey flooding will be a “multi-year project”, and while the government has pledged an initial $5.9bn for recovery efforts Texas authorities say the state might need more than $125bn.