Partner Recognition - CITGO

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” spoke and encouraged by John F. Kennedy in his 1961 inauguration speech. Fast forward to Houston, 2017, and the city is drenched in the fury of Harvey. A historical 51 inches of rain fell on the metropolitan area over three days. Homes never touched by floodwaters were drowning in water. Thousands never dreamed of being homeless, but three days of rain transformed Houston neighborhoods into ruined homes and dreams.

Tragedies can define communities by bringing together organizations with different foundations but mutually shared visions of growth. This vision created a partnership between CITGO and Rebuilding Together to address the need to rebuild our community one home at a time. CITGO Petroleum Corporation was no stranger to Rebuilding Together; they had provided financial and volunteer support to Rebuilding Together since 2016.

In December 2017, CITGO entered a multi-year partnership with RTH to repair Hurricane Harvey impacted homes in the Independence Heights neighborhood. CITGO’s generosity made a huge difference for those without the means to repair their homes after the disaster. When the project ends in the summer of 2021, CITGO and RTH will have repaired well over 200 homes, allowing seniors to age in place, retaining the unique character of neighborhoods, and preserving affordable housing for future generations.

Christine Holland, CEO/Executive Director of Rebuilding Together, commented, "CITGO has been a tremendous partner in our disaster recovery efforts. All along the way, they supported our efforts to repair homes the right way, as we assessed each house for all repairs needed, not just damage inflicted by Harvey. Because of their investment, our response for future disasters will be even stronger."

The question is being answered on what Houstonians can do for each other. The Houston challenge is enormous and more support is needed to answer the challenge. If your corporation, business, or organization is in the position to ask what you can do for Houston, call Rebuilding Together at 713-259-2511.