Truist Foundation announced it will donate an $1,000,000 to support relief and recovery efforts in communities most impacted by the historic destruction from Hurricane Helene. The funds will be distributed to IT Disaster Resource Center, United Way Worldwide, the American Red Cross and Center for Disaster Philanthropy’s Atlantic Hurricane Season Recovery Fund.
“Many of the communities we serve are experiencing historic and catastrophic flooding and millions are still without power and access to everyday essentials,” said Lynette Bell, president of Truist Foundation and graduate of Florida State University. “Truist Foundation is supporting trusted partners who are on the ground in the hardest hit areas, tirelessly working to restore power, cell service and clear roadways. We are committed to putting our purpose into action with additional funds to help those in impacted communities get connected – digitally and physically – as soon as possible.”
In addition to technology and infrastructure support, including converting trucks and trailers into Wi-Fi hotspots and connectivity centers, the selected organizations will use their grant funds to identify and deliver the most critical immediate community needs such as access to food, shelter and medical services. A portion of the donation will be focused on medium- and long-term recovery informed by disaster experts in partnership with those in the affected communities.