#United States #Duke Energy #St. Petersburg #Pasco-Pinellas #Senior Storm Kit

Duke Energy Foundation Supports Seniors in Severe Weather Preparation

In a commendable move towards community support, the Duke Energy Foundation has made a significant contribution of $40,000 to the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas (AAAPP). This funding is set to enhance the safety of senior citizens in the region by supplying them with severe weather kits in preparation for the upcoming hurricane season.

As Florida gears up for another potentially treacherous storm season, this initiative underscores the importance of ensuring that vulnerable populations, particularly older adults, have the necessary tools to weather the storm safely. According to Ann Marie Winter, executive director of AAAPP, this donation will benefit approximately 1,000 seniors through the Senior Storm Kit program. She expressed her gratitude for Duke Energy's support, highlighting how essential it is for the agency's mission to keep seniors safe at home.

The severe weather kits feature a variety of crucial items that can make a significant difference during emergencies. These kits are stocked with essentials such as a 12-hour light stick, flashlight with batteries, a headlamp, matches, and a battery-powered radio. Additionally, a mini first-aid kit, multi-tool kit, manual can opener, reusable utensils and drinking cup, notebook with a pencil, and large-print puzzle books are included for both safety and comfort. Hygiene items and a tote bag complete the package, ensuring that seniors are well-prepared regardless of the challenges they face.

In addition to financial support, Duke Energy employees have stepped up to volunteer their time, actively participating in assembling these vital kits. This hands-on involvement reflects the company’s ethos of community commitment. Marc Hoenstine, managing director of economic development at Duke Energy Florida, emphasized the importance of preparation and community outreach, especially after witnessing last year’s hurricane season. He stated, “Volunteering to assemble severe weather kits allows us to reach our most vulnerable communities. We want our customers to know we are here to help when they need us the most.”

To further bolster the community’s readiness, 25 Duke Energy volunteers assisted in bagging the kits, which AAAPP will distribute throughout Pinellas and Pasco counties. This collective effort highlights the role of corporate social responsibility in making impactful contributions to local communities and fostering resilience.

Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida’s state president, also remarked on the significance of volunteerism within the company, noting that employees contribute thousands of hours annually to various local organizations. She stated, “Strong, vibrant communities are the result of hard work, significant investments of time, and key partnerships.”

Moreover, Duke Energy encourages customers to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season by following safety tips and utilizing resources such as the free Red Cross Emergency app. This proactive step reaffirms their commitment not only as an energy provider but also as a community partner firmly dedicated to the well-being of their customers.

The Duke Energy Foundation, which allocates over $30 million annually, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting community needs where its customers reside, ensuring that both immediate and long-term challenges are addressed effectively.

Duke Energy, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, stands as one of the largest energy holding companies in America, committed to a sustainable and reliable energy future and actively working towards significant clean energy goals. The company's dedication to community support and preparedness is an integral part of its overarching mission, aiming toward a robust and resilient future for its customers.

For more information about Duke Energy’s initiatives and resources available for families preparing for storms, visit duke-energy.com.