Austria provides €25.5 million in flood relief
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The “Österreich hilft Österreich” initiative distributed €25.5 million in aid to people affected by severe flooding in Austria in September 2024, primarily in Lower Austria.
Peter Kaiser, deputy secretary general of the Austrian Red Cross, reported the funds came from donations received after the disaster. The initiative provided immediate support and assistance with rebuilding for those who lost homes and possessions. Approximately 8,500 people applied for bridging assistance, receiving up to €2,100 each, for a total of around €10.9 million.
Households facing the most severe damage were eligible for additional reconstruction aid of up to €10,700. The flooding caused widespread damage, including power outages and forced evacuations in places like Melk, where residents needed rescue by helicopter and small boats. “Österreich hilft Österreich” originally began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, founded by Caritas, Diakonie, Hilfswerk, the Red Cross, Volkshilfe, and ORF. It has since become a non-profit foundation.
Beyond disaster relief, the initiative supports long-term social projects for children, families, and young people, addressing ongoing needs beyond immediate crises. The ORF, Austria’s public broadcaster, supports the initiative through fundraising, reporting, and benefit events, working to draw attention to areas where help is needed.
