Duke Energy Foundation awards $100,000 to the American Red Cross ahead of Winter Storm Fern

Core Viewpoint - Duke Energy Foundation is providing a $100,000 rapid response grant to the American Red Cross to assist communities in the Carolinas in preparing for and enduring the impacts of Winter Storm Fern, which is expected to bring severe winter weather [1][2]. Group 1: Funding and Support - The funding will be allocated across North Carolina and South Carolina to enhance local efforts addressing cold-weather needs, including warming shelters, emergency supplies, and support for community-run shelters [2][3]. - The Duke Energy Foundation contributes over $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet community needs where Duke Energy customers reside [4]. Group 2: Company Overview - Duke Energy is a Fortune 150 company based in Charlotte, N.C., serving 8.6 million electric customers across several states and owning 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity [5]. - The company's natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio, and Kentucky [5]. Group 3: Community Impact - The support from the Duke Energy Foundation is crucial for families and individuals facing financial hardship, enabling the opening of shelters and provision of critical supplies [3]. - Duke Energy is actively monitoring weather impacts and will adjust its operational and community storm efforts as necessary [3].