#United States #disaster relief #West Palm Beach #Financial Aid #Emergency Assistance Foundation

Emergency Assistance Foundation Grants Over $59 Million in Relief for 2024

The Emergency Assistance Foundation (EAF), a non-profit organization dedicated to managing disaster and hardship relief funds, has announced a remarkable achievement for the year 2024. The foundation allocated over $59 million in financial relief to more than 71,800 individuals and families worldwide, aiding those in critical situations due to unforeseen events.

EAF’s efforts predominantly stem from its extensive network of employee relief funds, which encompasses over 350 funds supported by various companies such as ALDI, American Airlines, and Quest Diagnostics. These funds aim to assist employees in need during times of disaster and personal crises.

In 2024, the EAF faced pressing issues, particularly when Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused devastation in the southeastern United States. Utilizing its People First Fund, EAF enabled donors to effectively support victims by providing cash grants to help cover essential needs, including temporary housing, food, and clothing. Notably, the foundation issued relief the same day Helene made landfall in Florida, underscoring its commitment to prompt assistance.

Major Disasters in 2024

During 2024, EAF responded swiftly to numerous disasters worldwide, prioritizing the immediate needs of affected populations. The following outlines the five most significant events based on financial assistance dispensed:

1. Hurricanes Helene and Milton: $20 million to 31,000 individuals and families.
2. Hurricane Beryl: $8 million to 14,000 individuals and families.
3. Israel/Palestine Conflict: $1.8 million to 1,600 individuals and families, with a total relief of $5 million across two years.
4. Brazil Floods: $376,000 to 580 individuals and families.
5. Jasper Wildfire: $255,000 to 450 individuals and families.

Doug Stockham, President of EAF, emphasized the foundation's philosophy: "We know that the best way to provide support in the aftermath of disasters is to put money directly into the hands of the people impacted as quickly as possible, filling a void in traditional disaster response." This approach aims to empower individuals to address their immediate challenges effectively, assisting them on their path to recovery.

Addressing Personal Hardships

In addition to disaster relief, EAF is also committed to helping individuals facing personal hardships, which may arise from circumstances like severe illness, bereavement, or domestic violence. The organization provided significant support in 2024, focusing on the following categories based on the aid dispensed:

• - Serious Illness/Injury
• - Death (including funeral expenses)
• - Impact on Primary Residence (fires, floods)
• - Non-Routine Medical Expenses
• - Domestic Violence

To highlight the relevance of this support, EAF released a Domestic Violence Impact Report during October, coinciding with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This report underscores the crucial role that employee relief funds play in assisting survivors facing unexpected financial burdens in their journey towards safety and stability. To date, EAF has allocated over $3 million specifically for domestic violence support.

A Legacy of Giving

Since its inception, EAF has made a profound impact, distributing over $329 million to more than 411,000 individuals and families affected by both disasters and personal difficulties. Supported by $468 million in donations, EAF continues to be a vital resource for individuals during critical times of need. For those wishing to contribute or establish an employee relief fund, further information is available at eafrelief.org.

EAF embodies the essence of philanthropic leadership, ensuring that financial aid is delivered ethically and efficiently to those who need it most, regardless of their circumstances. By actively monitoring global disaster events in real-time, the organization ensures that help reaches those in desperate need swiftly and without delay.

For more information about EAF’s incredible work and how you can contribute, please visit their website.