In order to help Southeastern Pennsylvania communities impacted severely by Ida storm, PECO, the state’s largest electric and natural gas utility announced a $250,000 storm recovery fund.
As reported by WHYY, PECO will donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania and Salvation Army of Greater Philadelphia for essential supplies, overnight shelter stays, and first aid needs.
President and chief executive officer Mike Innocenzo said that the recovery fund is a responsibility to communities.“Supporting our customers and the communities we serve is one of PECO’s most important responsibilities. ”
Innocenzo added that the help will provide resources to recover from Ida remnants. “With the $250,000 provided by PECO’s Recovery Fund, the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania, the Salvation Army, and counties can assist more individuals and families throughout the Greater Philadelphia region with the essentials needed to not only persevere but recover.”
An additional $100,000 will be directed to organizations across Bucks, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties that are providing temporary housing, food and supplies, and financial assistance to individuals and families as they continue to rebuild following storm damage. Other funds will be allocated to counties, including Delaware County, and community partners as needs arise.
You can read: Philadelphia families could receive $300 a month to drive students
The company’s employees have also been helping to clean up public green spaces in the region that were severely damaged. Last Saturday, PECO employee volunteers assisted with a campus cleanup at the Brandywine Conservancy in Chadds Ford.
Ongoing relief efforts
“In ongoing partnership with our region’s nonprofits and relief organizations, we will continue to come together to power the critical services required in our region’s ongoing relief efforts,” Innocenzo said.
After Ida impact on the region, the Red Cross responded by sending 160 trained disaster workers to areas affected by flash flooding and tornadoes, providing services to more than 850 individuals.
Guy Triano, regional CEO for the Red Cross highlighted the company´s effort. “Powered by the generosity of PECO, dedicated Red Cross volunteers and employees are still working around the clock to deliver relief to survivors of tropical storm Ida.”