Knights of Columbus raise $1.3 million for storm victims

New Haven, Conn., Sep 12, 2017 / 12:02 am (CNA/EWTN News).- As Knights of Columbus members volunteer to aid the victims of recent storms, the organization has also raised over $1.3 million to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma.

“We have seen incredible generosity from our members, and we invite others to join us in providing aid that is urgently needed,” Supreme Knight Carl Anderson said in a Sept. 8 statement.

“The funds we raise will make a real difference in the lives of those already affected and those who are bracing for the worst.”

Hurricane Harvey has either damaged or destroyed over 93,000 Texas homes, and state authorities say the death toll has climbed to 70 people. While damage reports are still being conducted, Gov. Greg Abbott estimated that the cost to rebuild will be between $150-180 billion.

Hitting the Florida Keys on Sunday, Hurricane Irma was downgraded to a tropical storm on Monday after passing through Malibu towards southern Georgia. So far the hurricane has killed seven people in the U.S., adding to the 38 lives taken in the Caribbean.

Last week, members of the non-profit global fraternity volunteered to assist in Florida's disaster plan, and Texas Knights have continued to bring aid to victims affected by the Hurricane Harvey.

Already providing shelter for the displaced victims of Texas, the Knights have started to remove debris in order to help people back into their homes. The organization has also provided thousands of meals to Texas residents, including 5,000 in Beaumont and 8,000 in Ingleside.

With the money fundraised from the Knights throughout the U.S., the fraternity has now opened its doors to receive donations from the general public.