Home » world » Duke Energy Foundation Grants $100,000 to Red Cross for Winter Storm Fern Response

Duke Energy Foundation Grants $100,000 to Red Cross for Winter Storm Fern Response

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Duke energy Foundation Provides $100,000 Grant too Aid Storm Preparation in Carolinas

Charlotte, North Carolina – As Winter Storm Fern approaches, bringing the threat of severe conditions to portions of the Carolinas, Duke Energy is proactively bolstering community support. The Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $100,000 rapid-response grant to the American Red Cross, aimed at enhancing preparedness adn response efforts for both North and South Carolina. This funding will support critical needs as communities brace for sustained cold and potential storm impacts throughout the weekend and into next week.

Beyond Power Restoration: A Holistic Approach to Storm Response

duke Energy’s commitment extends beyond simply restoring electrical service during and after the storm. Loree Elswick, President of the Duke energy Foundation, emphasized that the association recognizes the broader needs of communities facing severe weather. The Foundation’s parallel efforts will focus on ensuring residents have access to safe, warm shelter and essential resources during this challenging period.

Targeted Support for Vulnerable Populations

The grant funds will be strategically distributed across both Carolinas to enhance local initiatives addressing cold-weather challenges. This includes providing resources for heated shelters, procuring emergency supplies like blankets, and offering support to community-operated shelter programs. These resources are vital, particularly for individuals and families already facing financial hardship, according to Alison Taylor, Regional executive for the American red cross.

Collaboration to Maximize Impact

The American Red Cross will work closely with local partners to efficiently deploy these funds and ensure they reach those who need them most. This collaborative approach aims to swiftly establish warming shelters, distribute essential supplies, and facilitate thorough support systems throughout impacted communities. according to the National Weather Service, winter storms are responsible for nearly $1.2 billion in damage annually in the United States. National weather Service

Duke Energy’s Ongoing Commitment to the Region

Duke Energy continues to closely monitor Winter Storm Fern’s trajectory and potential impacts. Operational and community storm response strategies will be adjusted as needed to ensure maximum effectiveness.Customers are encouraged to locate open shelters and access disaster relief services through the American Red Cross website: RedCross.org.

Organization Contribution Focus Area
Duke Energy Foundation $100,000 Rapid Response Grant for Storm Preparedness
american Red Cross resource Distribution & Shelter Support Providing Aid in North & South Carolina

The duke Energy Foundation consistently demonstrates its dedication to the well-being of the communities it serves, donating over $30 million annually in philanthropic contributions. Duke Energy itself, a Fortune 150 company, provides essential services to approximately 8.6 million electric customers and 1.7 million natural gas customers across six states.

Do you feel adequately prepared for severe winter weather events in your community? What additional resources could be beneficial during a crisis?

Contact: Gina DiPietro, 800.559.3853

what is the name of the organization that has pledged a $100,000 grant to help with Winter Storm Fern relief efforts?

Duke Energy Foundation Supports Red Cross Winter Storm Fern Relief Efforts

The Duke Energy Foundation has pledged a significant $100,000 grant to the American Red Cross to bolster relief efforts following the devastating impact of Winter Storm Fern. this financial commitment aims to provide immediate assistance to communities grappling with the storm’s aftermath, focusing on essential needs like shelter, food, and critical supplies.

Understanding the Impact of Winter Storm Fern

Winter Storm Fern swept across several states in late January 2026, bringing with it record-breaking snowfall, freezing temperatures, and widespread power outages. The storm’s intensity led to:

* Widespread Power Disruptions: Hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses experienced prolonged electricity outages, impacting heating systems and essential services.

* Transportation Challenges: Road closures and hazardous driving conditions severely hampered travel, delaying emergency response and supply deliveries.

* Shelter Needs: Many individuals and families were forced to evacuate their homes due to unsafe conditions, creating a surge in demand for emergency shelter.

* Increased Demand for Basic Supplies: Access to food, water, and warm clothing became critical for those affected by the storm.

How the Duke Energy Foundation Grant Will Be Used

The $100,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation will directly support the American Red Cross’s multifaceted response to Winter Storm Fern. Key areas of focus include:

  1. Emergency Shelter Operations: Funding will help maintain and equip emergency shelters, providing safe and warm havens for displaced individuals and families. This includes providing cots, blankets, hygiene kits, and essential medical support.
  2. Food and Water Distribution: The Red Cross will utilize the grant to procure and distribute food, water, and other essential supplies to affected communities. Mobile feeding operations will target areas with limited access to resources.
  3. Health and Mental Health Services: The grant will support the provision of health services, including first aid and mental health support, to those impacted by the storm. Stress and trauma are common after such events, and access to mental health resources is crucial.
  4. Damage Assessment and Recovery Planning: The Red Cross will leverage the funds to assist with damage assessments, helping to identify the most pressing needs and inform long-term recovery planning.

Duke Energy’s Commitment to Community Resilience

This grant is part of duke Energy’s broader commitment to supporting the communities it serves, notably during times of crisis. The Duke Energy Foundation consistently prioritizes disaster preparedness and response, recognizing the vital role of organizations like the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross’s Role in Disaster Relief

The American Red Cross is a leading organization in disaster relief, providing critical assistance to individuals and communities affected by emergencies across the country. Their services include:

* Disaster Response: Providing immediate assistance,such as shelter,food,and water,to those affected by disasters.

* Blood Services: Collecting, processing, and distributing life-saving blood products.

* Health and Safety Training: offering courses in first aid, CPR, and other essential life-saving skills.

* International Services: providing humanitarian aid to people affected by disasters and conflicts around the world.

Supporting Ongoing Relief Efforts

While the Duke Energy Foundation’s grant provides a ample boost to relief efforts, ongoing support is crucial for a full recovery. Individuals and organizations can contribute to the American Red cross’s winter Storm Fern relief efforts through:

* Financial Donations: Monetary contributions allow the Red Cross to purchase exactly what is needed, when and were it is needed most.

* Blood Donations: Blood supplies frequently enough dwindle during and after major disasters. donating blood can help ensure that hospitals have the resources they need to treat patients.

* Volunteer Opportunities: The Red Cross relies on volunteers to support its disaster relief operations. Opportunities range from shelter management to logistics support.

Duke Energy’s Proactive Approach to Winter Weather

Beyond immediate disaster relief, Duke Energy invests heavily in infrastructure improvements and proactive measures to mitigate the impact of winter storms. These include:

* Tree Trimming: Regularly trimming trees near power lines to reduce the risk of outages caused by falling branches.

* Grid Modernization: Investing in smart grid technologies to improve system reliability and resilience.

* Storm Preparedness Drills: Conducting regular drills to ensure that crews are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to winter weather events.

* public Awareness Campaigns: Educating customers about winter storm safety and preparedness

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