Hurricane Florence did major damage to the agriculture sector in North Carolina — to the tune of an estimated $1.1 billion. BASF is doing its part to help ease some of that burden by donating more than $150,000 in funds and supplies to support disaster relief efforts in the state. The Food Bank of Central & Eastern Carolina and the American Red Cross-Greater Carolinas region each received $50,000 from BASF.
The donations were made on behalf of BASF employees at its Research Triangle Park and Charlotte locations. In addition, the company provided equipment such as generators, extension cords, and other supplies at a value of $58,000.
Helping the Food Bank in Eastern North Carolina
“Hurricane Florence affected 26 of the 34 counties served by our Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina,” said its Vice President of Development Amy Beros. “To date we have distributed more than 1.7 million meals to our communities affected by Florence. While we know the need is great, because of organizations like BASF, we are able to stand alongside our neighbors for as long as they need us.”
The Food Bank donation will provide an additional 250,000 meals and supplies such as water and non-food essentials to the organization’s partner agencies who are currently distributing needed resources to the thousands affected by the hurricane.
“The Food Bank of Central & Eastern Carolina is one of our valued community partners in the Raleigh-Durham region and this donation helps families that are going through extreme food insecurity as a result of the hurricane,” said Paul Rea, Senior Vice President, BASF Agricultural Solutions located in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. “We are grateful for the Food Bank’s tireless efforts to help our neighbors, friends and families during their time of need.”
Supporting Red Cross efforts in the Charlotte area
The American Red Cross Greater Carolinas chapter is providing a range of relief services to those impacted by the hurricane in Charlotte and surrounding communities. Services include meals, snacks, overnight shelter, and mental health and health transportation. BASF’s donation will be used to continue the organization’s efforts.
“We are extremely grateful to our corporate partners, like BASF, who support us in the Charlotte community,” said Angela Powley, Red Cross Regional Executive, Greater Carolinas Region. “We are supporting the recovery of communities affected by Florence and this work will be ongoing in the weeks to come thanks to the generosity of donors.”
“Many BASF families live and work in the greater Charlotte area. We believe it is our responsibility to support the community, and areas surrounding our site, in their recovery from the impacts of Florence,” said Gerry Podesta, Senior Vice President, BASF Dispersions & Resins located in Charlotte, North Carolina. “We applaud the Red Cross for its efforts and are proud to donate and support their continued work in providing shelter, food and relief items to those who continue to need assistance.”
