As communities throughout Pennsylvania battle rising flood waters, The Pew Charitable Trusts today announced an immediate $1 million contribution to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Red Cross for relief efforts in the hardest-hit areas of the state. The Trusts has requested that seventy-five percent of the contribution be directed to smaller communities, such as those in Berks, Wyoming and Susquehanna counties. These regions have been disproportionately affected by flood waters and have fewer resources available to help those in need.
“As flood waters recede, we are just beginning to realize the full extent of damage sustained by our fellow Pennsylvanians,” said Rebecca W. Rimel, president and CEO of The Pew Charitable Trusts. “We want to ensure that all our citizens have access to the basic necessities – food, water and shelter.”
“The Trusts has a long-standing history in providing much needed relief for our communities in their time of greatest need. We hope this announcement will encourage citizens throughout the Commonwealth to support local disaster efforts and help us quickly recover,” added Rimel. “Local agencies are already working in flooded communities and are equipped to provide assistance.”
In 1948, the first grant ever awarded by the Trusts was to the American Red Cross for flood relief.