Hurricane Harvey left devastating impact on the Houston area; fortunately, all tribal members that currently reside in the area are safe.

The Southern Ute Growth Fund owns four apartment investment properties in the Houston area. All of the properties, totaling 1,000 units, fared well through the storm, suffering only a few leaks.

Also operating in Texas is Red Willow Offshore, LLC. The offshore operations were not affected throughout the hurricane; the path of the hurricane went around the rig allowing the rig to operate per business as usual.

However, there are approximately 10 employees of Red Willow Offshore who live in and around the Houston area. Most of the employees were minimally impacted, but unfortunately the hurricane did leave a devastating mark on two employees and their families.

The Southern Ute Growth Fund has begun a Hurricane Harvey Donation Drive, collecting monetary donations, which will be given to the American Red Cross Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. The Southern Ute Growth Fund has also agreed to donate $5,000 to this drive.

If you are interested in donating to those individuals and families, please make your checks payable to the American Red Cross Hurricane Harvey and drop off to the receptionist right inside of the Southern Ute Growth Fund Building.

The deadline for collection is Friday, Sept. 22. For more information, please contact Pat Vaughn at 970-563-5000.