Erie Insurance supports American Red Cross disaster relief efforts with $250,000 donation

ERIE, Pa., Sept. 3, 2024 - Erie Insurance (ERIE) today announced a $250,000 donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program to help ensure the organization is prepared to meet the needs of people affected by disasters big and small across the country.

ERIE's financial and in-kind support of the Red Cross spans nearly 25 years. Aligned closely with company's charitable giving areas of focus - safety, community building and environmental responsibility - the partnership was established by the Erie Insurance Giving Network in 2000, and reaches across the company's footprint into 12 states and the District of Columbia.

On top of ERIE's charitable giving to the Red Cross, company employees and agents contribute to the cause through personal donations and service projects in their local communities.

"We are pleased to again extend support that enables the American Red Cross to help keep people safe and families out of harm's way," said Jenny Weigold Geertson, director of community outreach and the Erie Insurance Giving Network. "Since our start in 1925, Erie Insurance has been guided by the responsibility to be there when the people who depend on us need us most, and that's also what the Red Cross offers our communities."

The Red Cross responds to more than 65,000 disasters across the country every year - mobilizing a team every eight minutes - providing relief, comfort and hope to people during what can be the worst days of their lives. Disaster Responder Program members pledge financial and in-kind donations in advance of disasters to power the Red Cross with strong infrastructure, trained volunteers, innovative technology and critical resources necessary to provide relief and support when needed. These donations allow the Red Cross to respond to disasters immediately offering a safe place to sleep, a hot meal, emotional support and resources to aid in recovery.

"We count on Disaster Responder members like Erie Insurance because they understand the importance of being prepared before a disaster strikes so we can respond immediately," said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. "We're extremely grateful for ERIE's donation, which will help ensure we can continue to build our capacity and resources ahead of time, keep up with the pace of frequent disasters and assist people in their darkest hours."

Donations from Disaster Responder Program members also support basic needs for families affected by home fires, which make up the majority of Red Cross response efforts and also help ensure the Red Cross can continue educating people nationwide about disaster preparedness.