Appalachian Power leaders and employees last week presented the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army a $102,178 donation dedicated to flood relief efforts in areas of West Virginia affected by floods earlier this summer. The donation comprises $52,178 in personal contributions from more than 400 employees across 11 states served by American Electric Power (AEP) and a matching gift of $50,000 from the AEP Foundation.
Funds will be split equally between the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army, and will be dedicated specifically to flood relief efforts in West Virginia.
“Tomorrow marks two months since historic flooding devastated communities that are part of our West Virginia service area,” said Charles Patton, Appalachian Power president and COO on Aug. 22. “Today we’re here to recognize the unprecedented effort that’s taken place to get these communities back on their feet, and to contribute funds in recognition of the fact that there is much more work still ahead.”
The Aug. 22 contribution follows a $25,000 company donation announced just days after the flood.
Patton thanked Appalachian Power employees who helped repair or replace electrical facilities damaged or destroyed by flood waters. He also recognized those who participated in the company’s July 8 day of volunteerism, in which more than 150 employees set aside their regular work to help individuals and businesses in flooded areas clean out and begin to rebuild.
Patton praised the response of local, state and federal agencies, as well as individual volunteers and volunteer organizations.
“The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army are consistently integral parts of efforts like this, and both do an amazing job of organizing volunteer energy and directing it in an efficient way,” said Patton. “We are pleased to help ensure the great work they are doing will continue.”
