As Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring severe weather to parts of the Carolinas, the Duke Energy Foundation has announced a $100,000 rapid response grant to the American Red Cross. The funding aims to help communities prepare for and manage the impacts of cold temperatures and storm conditions over the coming weekend and into early next week.
Loree Elswick, president of the Duke Energy Foundation, said, “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 distributed across North Carolina and South Carolina. It will support local initiatives such as warming shelters, emergency supplies, blankets, and assistance for community-run shelters.
Allison Taylor, regional executive for the American Red Cross, commented on the importance of this support: “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 continues monitoring weather developments and says it will adjust its operational response as needed. Information about open shelters and disaster relief services is available online.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million each year in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders.
Duke Energy serves 8.6 million electric customers in six states—North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky—and owns 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers across five states including Tennessee.
The company reports ongoing investments in grid upgrades as well as cleaner generation sources such as natural gas, nuclear energy, renewables and storage technologies. More details are available at duke-energy.com or through their social media channels.
