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Duke Energy's Commitment to Storm Preparedness in North Carolina

As storm season approaches, Duke Energy is stepping up to bolster emergency response efforts across North Carolina. Today, the company proudly announced a substantial contribution of $500,000 aimed at enhancing storm preparedness initiatives through its Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) grants. This funding will provide $25,000 to 20 essential emergency response organizations—including local government and nonprofit agencies—across the state.

Understanding the Context

In recent years, North Carolina has faced devastating natural disasters that have affected communities from the coast to the mountainous western regions. With predictions of another active storm season looming, the necessity of effective and timely emergency response strategies has never been more critical. By empowering local organizations—which are often the first line of defense—Duke Energy aims to ensure that communities are equipped with the necessary resources to respond effectively during severe weather events.

Why These Grants Matter

Duke Energy Foundation's HERO grants underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in disaster preparedness. According to recent statistics, the Foundation has previously allocated over $1.8 million to enhance storm readiness through various local initiatives over the last five years. By actively investing in community resources, the company is not just providing financial support, but also fostering an environment where preparedness is a shared value.

Voices from the Field

Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina President, expressed the importance of this initiative: "Last storm season underscored the resilience of our North Carolina communities. Proactive collaboration with local emergency response organizations is necessary to ensure that communities are prepared to maintain that resilience. We are committed to helping equip our growing state with the tools necessary to stay safe during the upcoming storm season."

Similarly, Tommy Batson, Director of Emergency Management for Pender County, highlighted the essential nature of the support: "Pender County, along with many coastal communities, is one disaster from losing the communications we use every day. This grant from Duke Energy will help us bridge this gap during the next event.”

Tony Ray, Fire Chief of Beaufort, called the funding a “vital investment in the safety of our community.” He emphasized how the grant would ensure that first responders receive the necessary training and equipment to perform their duties effectively during emergencies, thereby safeguarding lives and properties in Beaufort.

Don Mail, Vice Chair of Wake County’s Board of Commissioners, echoed these sentiments: “Emergency preparedness starts at the individual level. When all residents have access to the resources that will keep them safe during a crisis or natural disaster, our whole community becomes more resilient.”

Who Benefits from the Grants?

The following organizations will receive grants to enhance their storm preparedness:

• - Anson County
• - Town of Beaufort
• - Belews Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department
• - Buncombe County
• - Cherokee County Emergency Management
• - Gastonia Police Foundation
• - County of Granville
• - Henderson County
• - Jones County Emergency Management
• - Lee County Emergency Management
• - McDowell County
• - Pender County Emergency Management
• - Piedmont Triad Regional Development Corporation
• - Town of Pittsboro
• - City of Raleigh
• - Rockingham County
• - Rowan County Rescue Squad
• - Town of St. Pauls
• - Wake County Government
• - Wilmington Area Rebuilding Ministry

Duke Energy Foundation plays an essential role in supporting community initiatives, providing over $30 million annually in philanthropic funding to address local needs. This commitment further includes strategic investments aimed at ensuring customer reliability and fostering a more sustainable energy future.

As Duke Energy continues its ambitious energy transition, the company remains focused on not only maintaining service reliability but also helping communities thrive amid challenges posed by natural disasters. Every dollar contributed is viewed as a step towards ensuring a safer, more prepared North Carolina.

For further details about Duke Energy’s initiatives, visit their official website and stay updated on their contributions towards building resilient communities.