Colts, Pacers donate $250k to disaster relief amid historic Indiana floods

Two of Indiana's premier sports franchises, the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers, have combined to donate $250,000 to disaster relief efforts following severe flooding and historic winds that have claimed at least seven lives and caused significant property damage across the state.

The Indianapolis Colts and Pacers Sports & Entertainment collectively pledged $125,000 each, with the funds earmarked for the American Red Cross, the organization responsible for managing disaster relief and running emergency shelters. Terry Stigdon, CEO of the American Red Cross Indiana Region, explained that the money will be vital in providing families with immediate access to essential aid and recovery resources.

Currently, the Red Cross is managing or supporting 13 emergency shelters for displaced Hoosiers. On August 15, the Red Cross sheltered over 200 people overnight and distributed approximately 4,700 meals and snacks. Stigdon emphasized that the Red Cross will continue to support recovery efforts for months to come.

Kalen Jackson, co-owner of the Colts and an Indianapolis native, stressed the importance of community solidarity as the community begins to recover from the disaster. He noted that while the immediate impact is top of mind, the road to full recovery will span many months. Jackson encouraged Hoosiers to remain supportive and come together as they have so frequently in the past during times of need.

The teams urged fans to visit redcross.org to contribute financially or sign up as volunteers. Additionally, households requiring shelter or other assistance can find aid on the Red Cross website. Fans can download the free IndyStar app and enable notifications to receive breaking news and sports alerts. For more information, readers can email Indianapolis City Hall Reporter Jordan Smith at JTSmith@indystar.com, follow him on X @jordantsmith09, and Bluesky @jordanaccidentally.bsky.social.