The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded two Duke Energy Renewables grants in the amount of US$20,000 each to Feeding Texas and the American Red Cross of Central and South Texas.
These funds will provide support services, including food, water, shelter, and other necessary resources to Texans who have experienced rolling blackouts, drinking water advisories, and historically low temperatures caused by the recent polar vortex that impacted the state.
"Texans have endured many challenges over the last several weeks, from gas shortages, water advisories, access to food, and rolling blackouts," said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Renewables. "We value our community partners and are comforted to know that our contributions are helping improve access to community resources and services for the citizens of Texas, particularly during this time of need."
Thousands of Texans sought relief at local shelters and obtained services, including water, ready-to-eat meals, and emergency supplies, supported through the American Red Cross of Central and South Texas, and will continue to do so as recovery efforts from the winter storms continue.
"The American Red Cross of Central and South Texas is very grateful to Duke Energy for its gift. Through its support, much-needed supplies, including blankets, cots, and meals, will be provided to those in need," said Sunny Howard, regional chief development officer, The American Red Cross of Central and South Texas.
Feeding Texas is also playing a key role in supporting the needs of Texans, particularly as the area and its citizens recover from the recent winter storm blast. The funds provided by Duke Energy to Feeding Texas will provide more than 200,000 meals to Texas citizens.
"The pandemic already pushed more Texans than ever to access food assistance from food banks. But the need is even higher as we strive to help Texas families recover from the impact of the recent winter storms," said Celia Cole, chief executive officer at Feeding Texas. "We are grateful for Duke Energy's support in helping Texas food banks keep their communities nourished through this crisis."
The Feeding Texas network consists of 21 food banks serving all 254 counties in the state. Texas is home to more than 50% of Duke Energy Renewables' solar, wind, and storage assets. Currently, it operates nearly 1500 MW of wind, 500 MW of solar, and a 36-MW battery storage facility, which are managed by nearly 100 employees based in the state.
