Truist Surpasses Milestone in $725 Million Commitment for Western North Carolina Recovery

In a significant milestone for recovery efforts in Western North Carolina, Truist Financial Corporation and the Truist Foundation have announced that they have surpassed the halfway point of their ambitious $725 million commitment titled "Truist Cares for Western North Carolina." This initiative, which was established in response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, aims to aid the region in its long-term recovery by providing dedicated lending for small businesses, supporting commercial real estate development, and facilitating home mortgages.

As global leaders convene in Asheville, North Carolina, Truist's Chairman and CEO, Bill Rogers, remarked on the importance of collaboration among businesses, philanthropic organizations, and community partners. He stated, "The progress in Western North Carolina demonstrates what's possible when these sectors unitedly pursue a common goal." According to Rogers, surpassing the halfway mark not only showcases Truist's commitment to supporting impacted families and communities, but it also signals their readiness to continue working towards long-term resilience and recovery. He added, "While there is more work ahead, we're encouraged by the progress made and remain committed to the region's long-term recovery and resilience."

The Truist Foundation's Western North Carolina Recovery and Resiliency Fund is managed in partnership with the Center for Disaster Philanthropy. As it enters its final phase of funding deployment, the goal is to distribute all available grant funding by the second anniversary of Hurricane Helene. The grantmaking process has been informed by comprehensive assessments of local needs and continuous engagement with nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and other partners involved in the recovery process.

Focus Areas of Support

1. Small Business Lending: Truist has implemented dedicated lending programs aimed specifically at helping local businesses access the capital necessary for their recovery efforts. Recognizing the crucial role that small businesses play in the local economy, Truist has also partnered with community organizations to enhance financing programs and create referral pathways that direct assistance to businesses, particularly in rural areas.

2. Commercial Real Estate: Financing efforts are focusing on improving commercial real estate activity in the region, which includes backing multifamily housing projects designed to alleviate ongoing housing shortages. This effort aims at preserving existing housing while promoting the development of affordable housing.

3. Home Mortgages: In addition to business lending, Truist's mortgage lending program is designed to support residents in financing homes, thereby contributing to a broader recovery of the housing market across Western North Carolina.

Community Engagement

In addition to financial contributions, Truist's employees have stepped up to provide hands-on community support. Collectively, they have volunteered over 5,000 hours, aiding numerous community organizations across the region. These efforts are indicative of a broader belief at Truist that meaningful recovery is not bound by time; instead, it necessitates engagement from partners who remain involved long after the immediate crisis fades from public view.

Commitment to Long-Term Recovery

"Truist Cares for Western North Carolina" was initially announced in November 2024 with the aim of facilitating small business recovery, housing stabilization, and essential infrastructure support following Hurricane Helene. This multifaceted initiative combines dedicated lending, impact capital, philanthropic funding, and active volunteer engagement, assisting communities as they evolve from immediate relief to sustainable, long-term recovery.

For more information regarding Truist's commitment to Western North Carolina, individuals can visit Truist.com/truistcares.

About Truist

Truist Financial Corporation operates with a purpose-driven ethos, aspiring to inspire better lives and strengthen communities from its headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a leading bank in numerous high-growth markets in the United States, Truist offers a comprehensive array of services ranging from consumer banking to investment banking, portfolio management, and specialized lending. As of June 30, 2026, Truist reported total assets of $556 billion.

About the Truist Foundation

The Truist Foundation is dedicated to furthering Truist’s mission by investing strategically in various nonprofit organizations. Established in 2020 and operating independently from Truist Financial Corporation, the foundation concentrates on two key areas: building career pathways for economic mobility and bolstering small businesses, ensuring equitable opportunities for all communities to prosper. Noteworthy initiatives include the Inspire Awards and the Where It Starts program. Further information can be found at TruistFoundation.org.