Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $100,000 rapid response grant to the American Red Cross as Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring severe weather to parts of the Carolinas. The funding aims to help communities in North Carolina and South Carolina prepare for and respond to storm impacts and cold temperatures over the coming days.
Loree Elswick, president of Duke Energy Foundation, stated, “Duke Energy’s storm response goes beyond restoring power. While our crews prepare to respond safely and quickly to winter weather impacts, the Foundation is working in parallel to help ensure customers and communities have access to safe, warm places and essential resources.”
The grant will be used across both states to support local efforts such as providing warming shelters, emergency supplies, blankets, and additional support for community-run shelters.
Allison Taylor, regional executive for the American Red Cross, said, “Severe winter weather can put added strain on families and individuals, particularly those already facing financial hardship. Support from the Duke Energy Foundation helps us work hand in hand with local partners to open shelters, provide critical supplies and ensure communities have the resources they need to stay safe and warm.”
Duke Energy reports that it is continuing to monitor weather developments and will adjust its operational and community support efforts as needed. Information about open shelters and disaster relief services can be found online.
The Duke Energy Foundation annually provides more than $30 million in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders for community needs where Duke Energy customers live.
Duke Energy is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company serves 8.6 million electric utility customers across six states—North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky—and operates 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in five states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Kentucky.
The company continues investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy generation sources including natural gas, nuclear power plants, renewables such as solar or wind power projects as well as energy storage solutions. More information about Duke Energy’s operations can be found at duke-energy.com or through their news center.
For media inquiries regarding this announcement contact Gina DiPietro via the 24-hour media line at 800-559-3853.
