The 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 North Carolina and South Carolina. The donation aims to help communities in these states prepare for and cope with the storm’s effects and sustained low temperatures anticipated over the weekend and into early next week.
Loree Elswick, president of the Duke Energy Foundation, stated, “Duke Energy’s response to storms goes beyond restoring power. While our crews prepare to respond safely and quickly to winter weather impacts, the Foundation works in parallel so customers and communities have access to safe, warm places and essential resources.”
The funds will be distributed across North Carolina and South Carolina to support local efforts addressing cold-weather needs such as heated shelters, emergency supplies, blankets, and assistance for community-run shelters.
Alison Taylor, regional executive at the American Red Cross, said, “Winter weather can strain families and individuals, especially those already facing economic hardship. Support from the Duke Energy Foundation helps us work alongside local partners to open shelters, provide essential supplies, and ensure communities have what they need to stay safe and warm.”
Duke Energy continues monitoring the situation and will adjust its operational measures as needed during the storm. Information about open shelters and disaster relief services is available online.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support for community needs where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation is funded by shareholders of Duke Energy.
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the largest energy holding companies in the United States. Its electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky with a combined capacity of 55,100 megawatts. Its natural gas operations serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Kentucky.
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